Annually, Christmas trees, candles, and decorations cause fires that lead to numerous casualties, so here are some tips to prevent:
Christmas trees
The needles and resin on pine trees are incredibly flammable, meaning that the smallest spark can make your tree aflame in seconds. A Christmas tree surrounded by furniture has the potential to destroy the whole room and possibly the entire house.
Make sure it’s fresh
If you’ve chosen a real tree, ensure you don’t pick an outdated one. Aged trees are drier and more flammable, increasing the risk of accidents. Fresh trees have a strong green colour and are notably fragrant, so choosing a younger, newly felled tree is relatively simple.
Tap the stalk on the ground to check its freshness and ensure that only a few needles drop off.
Keep it watered
Watering your Christmas tree keeps it healthier for longer and also increases fire resistance. Christmas trees can drink up to two pints of water daily and should be kept in a bucket to ensure constant access. Check the water level daily to ensure your tree is hydrated.
Well-watered trees hold moisture, preventing fast-spreading fire, which can make a massive difference if the tree catches fire. While the moisture won’t put out the fire, it will give more time to deal with the issue or escape to safety.
Watering your Christmas tree keeps it healthier for longer and also increases fire resistance. Christmas trees can drink up to two pints of water daily and should be kept in a bucket to ensure constant access. Check the water level daily to ensure your tree is hydrated.
Well-watered trees hold moisture, preventing fast-spreading fire, which can make a massive difference if the tree catches fire. While the moisture won’t put out the fire, it will give more time to deal with the issue or escape to safety.
Christmas Lights
Turn them off
Christmas lights are one of the most popular decorations during the festive season, but they are also one of the biggest fire hazards during Christmas due to the heat that builds the longer they’re turned on. It’s important to remember that heat sources should never be left unattended.
If you’re forgetful, invest in a smart plug to ensure your lights are turned off at night or when you’re not in the building. Also, if you’ve left the building and are worried you’ve forgotten to turn off the lights, take a picture before you leave to give yourself some peace of mind. The timers can also help lessen your electricity bill, making Christmas happier.
Additionally, if your lights are old, consider replacing them with newer ones, as electrical faults are more likely to happen with old ones.
Christmas Decorations
Many Christmas decorations are made from flammable materials such as tissue paper, cardboard, card and wood.
When decorating, attach decorations directly to lights or heaters and keep them far away from candles. Also, keep decorations and cards away from the fireplace, as they can pose an ignition risk.
Many Christmas decorations are made from flammable materials such as tissue paper, cardboard, card and wood.
When decorating, attach decorations directly to lights or heaters and keep them far away from candles. Also, keep decorations and cards away from the fireplace, as they can pose an ignition risk.
Candle Safety
It is recommend to use battery-powered candles instead of candles with real flames. Candles and tea lights can give a warm glow to a room or fill it with an aroma, but they can also lead to fires. If you do decide to use them, follow our safety advice to keep yourself and others safe.
Have a wonderful festive season
However you celebrate this time of year, we wish everyone a wonderful festive season and end to 2024.
