News

STAY SAFE AT CHRISTMAS

Kent Fire and Rescue Service is issuing fire safety warnings as homeowners start to prepare for Christmas and the New Year.

Issues such as candle and electrical safety should be considered to help prevent the rise in incidents that is typical for this time of year.

Head of Community Fire Safety Stuart Skilton said: “We don’t wish to dampen anyone’s fun, we just urge people to stay safe and take the necessary precautions to keep them and their families safe from fire. Across the county we are already starting to see accidental fires in homes involving candles and electricals, such as decorative Christmas lights. Last week alone crews from the Maidstone area were called to three homes to tackle small incidents caused by these two factors. Remember that smoke alarms are vital. If you don’t already have one in your home, make this a priority – it will be the best Christmas present you’ll ever buy!�

• The following safety measures can stop a fire from starting:
  
  Electrical:
  
  • Check your Christmas lights conform to British Standard
  • Decorations can burn easily - don't attach them to lights or heaters
  • Don't overload sockets - use One Plug, One Socket, and take special care with Christmas lights
  • If you have to use an adaptor, use a 'bar type' one with a fuse and keep the total output of all plugs in the adaptor to no more than 13 amps . A kettle alone uses 13 amps
  • Switch Christmas lights off when you leave the house and when you go to bed
  • Check for signs of loose wiring and faulty plugs or sockets, such as scorch marks or flickering lights, and have any problems you find fixed
  • If in any doubt consult the product manufacturer or a qualified electrician
  
  Candles
  
  • Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings
  • Always use a proper candle holder and make sure the candle fits firmly inside it. Leave plenty of space above and around the candle and the candle holder
  • Keep candles away from curtains, furniture, and draughts
  • Always put the candle holder on a heat resistant surface. This is especially important for “tea lights�. Never put candles on polished surfaces like televisions
  • Never leave candles unattended or go to sleep when they are alight
  • Use a candle snuffer or a metal spoon to put the candle out
  
  

For more information on fire safety or smoke alarms and their maintenance log on to www.kent.fire-uk.org or call the Community Fire Safety team on 01622 698360. For a free home fire safety check during which, if necessary, smoke alarms are fitted free of charge contact your nearest fire station.