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Christmas is a magical time of year, filled with family gatherings, sparkling lights, home-cooked feasts and cherished traditions. But in the excitement of preparing Christmas dinner, wrapping presents, entertaining guests and decorating the home, it’s easy to become distracted. That’s why Avon Fire and Rescue Service, together with the National Fire Kills campaign, is urging everyone to make fire safety an essential part of their festive preparations. A moment’s carelessness can turn a time of joy into a devastating event, and the Service is encouraging residents to take steps now that will protect their homes, families and celebrations throughout the season.
Although fire safety should be part of everyday life, the Christmas season presents a unique combination of risks. Houses are busier, kitchens are used more frequently, decorations are often flammable, and electrical items are plugged in for far longer periods than usual. All of this creates conditions where a small incident can quickly escalate into a serious fire. Avon Fire and Rescue Service stresses that a little extra vigilance at this time of year can make all the difference between a Christmas filled with joy and one overshadowed by tragedy. By taking the time to consider how festive activities might raise the likelihood of fire, families can enjoy the season without unnecessary worry.
Nikki Rice our fire safety prevention manager emphasises that Christmas is intended to be a relaxing and enjoyable time. It’s a chance to reconnect with friends and family, unwind after a busy year and perhaps indulge in favourite seasonal treats. However, she also highlights that the very things that make this season feel magical, such as fairy lights, candles, decorations, and additional household activities, can create hazards if not treated with care.
Decorations hanging near heat sources, candles burning too close to fabrics or electrical items left on overnight all have the potential to ignite and spread rapidly. Nikki’s message is simple: enjoy the celebrations, but do not overlook the importance of keeping loved ones safe.
Fire safety at Christmas begins with awareness. One of the most effective protections any household can have is a working smoke alarm on every level of the home. These alarms should be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning properly, as they provide the earliest possible warning of danger and can save lives. In the kitchen, which is statistically one of the most common areas for fires to start, it is essential that cooking is never left unattended.
Christmas meals often involve multiple dishes, several pans on the hob and a busy environment, which increases the likelihood of accidents. Even brief distractions, such as checking on guests or answering the door, can result in food burning, oil overheating, or appliances malfunctioning. Alcohol can impair concentration even further, so extra caution is required when cooking after drinking.
Candles are another traditional part of Christmas that must be handled thoughtfully. While they create a warm and festive ambience, they should always be placed in sturdy holders designed to catch wax and prevent them from tipping over. They must be kept well away from cards, decorations, curtains and anything else that might catch alight. A candle should never be left burning in an empty room, even momentarily, as fires can spread silently and quickly when no one is present to intervene.
Smoking also demands attention during the festive period, especially when celebrations run late, and fatigue sets in. Cigarettes should always be fully extinguished, as smouldering embers left in ashtrays or dropped onto soft furnishings can ignite hours later, often when everyone is asleep. Fires that start at night are especially dangerous, making prevention more important.
The cold winter weather often leads people to use portable heaters or open fires to stay warm. While these provide comfort, they also carry significant risk when used improperly. Portable heaters must never be used as makeshift dryers, as placing clothing or fabric over them can cause overheating and ignition. They should be positioned away from furniture, bedding and decorations to ensure nothing flammable is within reach. Open fires, meanwhile, should always be guarded and never left burning without supervision. Logs and coals can shift unexpectedly, and a stray spark can ignite carpets or nearby decorations.
Electrical safety is another critical concern during Christmas. The temptation to plug multiple items into a single socket can be strong, especially when powering seasonal lighting, kitchen gadgets or new electronic gifts. However, overloaded sockets are a common cause of electrical fires. Only one plug should be used per socket, and appliances that are not actively needed should be switched off and unplugged to reduce risk.
Christmas lights should be turned off before going to bed or leaving the house. Older lights may not meet modern safety standards, and even newer products can pose a hazard when left unattended for long periods. Outdoor lights require additional care, such as the use of an RCD (residual-current device) to protect against electrical faults, moisture and weather conditions that might otherwise lead to fire or electrocution.
Christmas is a season of generosity, kindness and looking out for others. Avon Fire and Rescue Service encourages residents to extend this spirit of care to vulnerable relatives, elderly neighbours, or those who may struggle to maintain their own fire safety. Testing smoke alarms for them, helping them check their Christmas lights or ensuring their heaters are safely placed can have a life-saving impact. Many people live alone or may not be aware of potential hazards, and a few minutes of support can provide them with greater security and peace of mind.
Equally important is ensuring that every member of a household understands what to do if a fire occurs. The plan is straightforward: get out, stay out and call 999. Attempting to fight a fire, retrieve belongings or re-enter a burning building can result in serious injury or death. Clear communication and calm action are the best tools for surviving an emergency.
For those who would like advice tailored specifically to their home, Avon Fire and Rescue Service offers a Home Fire Safety Check, which provides personalised guidance based on individual circumstances, household setup and any specific vulnerabilities. Completing this assessment can help identify risks that might otherwise be overlooked and offer a valuable layer of reassurance during the busy festive season.
As the holiday season approaches, Avon Fire and Rescue Service extends its warmest wishes to every household. Christmas should be a time of joy, connection and celebration, and by keeping fire safety at the forefront of your preparations, you can ensure that your home remains a safe and happy place for everyone who visits. With a little extra care and awareness, the festive season can be enjoyed in all its brightness, free from danger and full of lasting memories.
