[19 November 2007]

Christmas safety message

Christmas is a time of fun and festivities, and whilst you are thinking of how to make your Christmas extra special this year spare a thought for your families' safety and your own. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is offering some simple fire safety advice to ensure that your Christmas is safe and enjoyable.

Christmas tree lights are a potential fire hazard; make sure that fairy lights are switched off when you go to bed or go out, and make sure that the bulbs are not touching anything that could burn easily such as wrapping paper. Some decorations are extremely flammable, and it is important that they are kept away from candles, the fireplace, lights and heaters. Special fire safety precautions need to be taken with Christmas trees; a burning tree can rapidly fill a room with deadly gases and fire, so it is vital that they are kept away from heat sources such as fireplaces or heat vents.

You are more likely to have an accidental house fire during the Christmas period than at any other time of the year. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is reminding people to take extra care over the festive season to ensure that their families and loved ones are protected from fire.