NIFRS urges public to prioritise fire safety this Christmas

As homes across Northern Ireland get ready to deck the halls, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is reminding everyone to stay fire safe this Christmas. It can be easy to get distracted when celebrating with friends and loved ones, however it is important to keep fire safety at the top of your Christmas list.

With added holiday fire hazards like twinkling Christmas trees, glowing candles and festive cooking in the kitchen, NIFRS is urging the public to remain vigilant this festive season to protect themselves and their loved ones.

NIFRS Group Commander Jonathan Gamble said: “Christmas is a magical time of year when we welcome our families and loved ones into our homes. However, with busier households, increased alcohol consumption, and the use of various electrical appliances, it's important to prioritise fire safety to prevent any unwanted or accidental fires this festive season.

“Christmas lights can be a perfect way to brighten up your home, but make sure it’s done safely. First, check that your lights are in good working order and comply with British Standards. Don’t overload plug sockets and stick to 1 plug per socket. Always remember to switch off and unplug the lights before leaving your home or going to bed. If you have a real Christmas tree, make sure it is well hydrated, as a dry tree becomes more flammable.

“Christmas dinners and parties can be one of the best parts of the holiday season. Always avoid cooking while under the influence of alcohol, and ensure there are no dishtowels, packaging or paper near the hob. Remember to turn appliances off when you are finished using them or if you need to leave the room.

“Candles can be a great centrepiece at the dinner table, but they are also a fire hazard if not controlled properly. Keep candles away from curtains and decorations and when possible, opt for battery-operated candles instead.

“We understand that homes can become very crowded at Christmas. Therefore, it’s important to ensure all escape routes are clear of any decorations or gifts and that everyone staying with you during the festive season is aware of the fire escape plan in case of an emergency.

“It’s vital that every home is protected with working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Smoke alarms give an early warning if a fire breaks out, so they should be fitted on every level of your home.

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"Any room with a fuel-burning appliance, such as a gas boiler, fireplace or wood-burning stove, should have a working carbon monoxide alarm. Carbon monoxide is invisible and odourless, so having an alarm in these rooms is essential.

“NIFRS crews will continue to be on call 24/7 throughout the festive period to keep Northern Ireland safe. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure we don’t have to visit your home this Christmas.”

NIFRS Christmas Safety Advice

• Have a working smoke alarm fitted on each floor of your property.
• Have a working carbon monoxide alarm installed in rooms with fuel burning appliances.
• NEVER leave cooking unattended and avoid cooking whilst under the influence of alcohol. Make sure cooking appliances are turned off after use.
• Check your Christmas lights are in good working order and conform to the British Standard.
• NEVER overload sockets and always turn Christmas lights off before going to bed or if you are leaving the house. Remember one plug per socket.
• Only buy from reputable retailers. Ensure electrical equipment and chargers comply with the required safety standards.
• If you are using extra heaters during the winter months, make sure they are kept away from soft furnishings and Christmas decorations.
• If you choose to have a real Christmas tree, ensure it is well hydrated as a dry tree becomes more flammable.
• Keep candles away from soft furnishings, decorations, Christmas trees and wrapping paper. Ensure they are out of reach from pets and children. NEVER leave candles unattended.
• Make sure cigarettes are extinguished correctly and empty ashtrays safely. NEVER smoke in bed.
• Keep your escape routes clear and discuss your fire escape with your family and anyone else who may be staying with you.
• Check on older relatives and neighbours to ensure their safety.