27/11/2020
We love the Christmas season, but the extra lights and decorations may pose a higher fire risk. Read our top tips on how to keep safe at Christmas time.
- Keep decorations, cards and your Christmas tree away from heat or ignition sources such as candles, lights and heaters.
- Please don’t hang decorations, including Christmas wreaths and lights, in communal areas – although they look great, they increase the risk of fire.
- If you’re putting lights up outside, make sure they are the LED cool type and rated as suitable for outdoor use.
- Extinguish candles before going to bed or going out.
- Check that your fairy lights have a CE marking or British safety standard sign, and check the wiring is in a good condition – especially if you are using lights from a previous year.
- Always switch off lights and unplug them at the socket when you go to bed or leave your home.
- Never leave cooking unattended – keep an eye on that turkey and Christmas pudding.
- Fit smoke alarms in your home and test them weekly. Do not remove the batteries other than to replace them. If you have a hardwired alarm that isn’t working, get in touch with us immediately on 0800 035 1991 or via email. You can request a home fire safety check from the London Fire Brigade free of charge here.
- If you smoke over Christmas, please read and follow the London Fire Brigade’s safety tips.
We wish all of our community a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.