Christmas Cheers not Christmas Tears (Status: Press release)

OXFORDSHIRE County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to put fire safety at the top of their Christmas list this year.

Government figures reveal that during the month of December, approximately 25 people a day across England are either killed or injured in accidental house fires.

Risk Reduction manager, Mike Bingham, said: “Christmas is a time for having fun – however it?s also a time when extra alcohol is consumed and fire hazards are introduced into the home such as Christmas lights and candles in close proximity to flammable Christmas decorations and parcels. By following some simple safety tips the risk of a house fire can be greatly reduced.”

Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Safer and Stronger Communities, Judith Heathcoat, added: “We really want people to think seriously about fire safety to make this a Christmas to remember for all the right reasons.

“There is always a greater risk of becoming distracted during times of celebration and it’s very important that people are aware of the need for extra vigilance.”

CHRISTMAS SAFETY TIPS

Buy British Standard fairy lights
Place candles in holders away from curtains
As most fires start in the kitchen – never leave your cooking unattended;
Always ensure cigarettes are completely extinguished
Remember the risk of accidents is far greater after consuming any amount of alcohol
General fire safety checks:

Check the battery in your smoke alarm; test your smoke alarm weekly and change the battery yearly
Plan ahead and have an escape plan for the family in the event of a fire
Check the fuses in all plugs are the right size for the appliance
Ensure all lights are turned off and candles extinguished before you go to bed or go out
Check elderly relatives and neighbours are fire safe; ensure they have a working smoke alarm