With Christmas fast approaching, decorations will soon be adorning homes inside and out.
We appreciate festive cheer and twinkling lights, but we want to be sure that your home is decorated safely. Official UK fire statistics show that house fires are most common in December, so take a look at the followings tips to ensure your decorations won’t be going up in smoke:
- You are around 10 times more likely to die from a fire if you don’t have a working smoke alarm in your home. Test your smoke alarms once a month. Call our customer support team on 01225 715 715 if you have any issues with your smoke alarms.
- Do not overload sockets. Only use one plug per socket. Always turn off plugs when they are not in use. Check wires and plugs regularly for exposed cables, scorch marks, crackling sounds or being hot to the touch.
- Comply with manufacturer’s instructions for any decorations, and please use Christmas tree lights that show the British Standard: BS EN 60598.
- Keep your Christmas tree in an open area away from plug sockets and candles and other heat sources. If you choose an artificial tree, ensure it is made from fire retardant materials. If you choose a real tree, keep it well watered, and when it starts to turn brown or drop its needles, dispose of it, as it becomes a fire hazard.
- Ensure you switch off any fairy light decorations and put out any candles before going to bed or leaving the house.
- For outdoor decorations, use a residual current device (RCD) which will switch off the power if there is a fault.
- Do not leave candles unattended. Keep other decorations, cards and wrapping paper away from open fires, heaters and candles.
- Make sure that your exits are clear from clutter, so you can get out if you need to. This is especially important in communal areas of blocks of flats. Please don’t leave rubbish, bikes, prams or mobility scooters in communal hallways in accordance with our clear corridors policy.
- Our purpose built blocks of flats have a ‘Stay put’ policy in the event of a fire. This applies to blocks that are made of compartments that will stop fire and smoke from spreading. Check your ‘Fire Action Notice’ displayed in the communal area of where you live.
Check you know how to test your smoke alarms safely, and please read our fire safety and battery safety articles to make sure you stay safe this Christmas!
Happy holidays!
