RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
December 2, 2002
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS FIRE STRIKE FEAR
Christmas decorations and lights will add a new threat if the firefighters’ strikes continue, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents warned today.
Sarah Colles, RoSPA Home Safety Adviser, said: “Families are already starting to put up trimmings, candles, lights and trees - which have all been associated with fires in the past.
“It is essential that people take extra care when decorating their homes this year so that a time of happiness does not turn into tragedy.”
RoSPA tips for a Christmas safe from fire are:
- Decorations and cards should never be placed above a fire or near heat sources such as light fittings.
- Burning candles should never be left unattended and should definitely not be put on Christmas trees. Latest figures show nearly 20 deaths and more than 800 injuries in candle fires each year.
- If you have old lights, seriously consider buying new ones, which will meet much higher safety standards. Old lights may have become damaged over the years. New ones are transformed down to 24 volts for added safety, or may be double insulated.
- Remember to switch off and unplug Christmas lights and check for other fire hazards when going out of the house or going to bed.
- Keep lights clear of decorations and other flammable materials. Don’t allow children to play with lights.
- A working smoke alarm is vital. Never remove the batteries to use in children’s toys – often a temptation at Christmas when gifts may come without a battery.
Other RoSPA tips to avoid fires are: put all matches and lighters out of the reach of children; guard fires and heaters; ensure cigarettes are properly extinguished; don’t smoke in bed; don’t leave cooking unattended or fill chip pans more than one third full; and plan a safe route out of the house in the event of fire.
Full safety advice on Christmas lights can be found in the factsheets section of www.rospa.com
