Stay safe this Christmas

The holiday season is here, and it’s time to deck the halls, put up the tree, and enjoy all the festive fun. But amidst all the merriment, danger can lurk. Follow these tips to ensure your Christmas is filled with joy and not unexpected surprises:

Deck the halls, but don’t overload the sockets

Using extension cords wisely is key. Plugging too many decorations into one socket can cause overheating and potentially start a fire. Spread out your decorations across different outlets or use a power strip with a built-in circuit breaker.

Twinkling lights, but not overnight

Remember to turn off Christmas lights and decorations before going to bed or leaving the house. Lights can overheat and cause a fire if left on for too long. Setting a timer for your lights to automatically turn off at a certain time each night can be a great help.

Keep the tree fresh and hydrated

Did you know a real Christmas tree can be more of a fire hazard than an artificial one? Artificial trees are usually fire retardant. Real trees require watering and can absorb up to a litre of water a day, so it’s important you don’t let them dry out.

Candles are lovely, but be careful

Place candles in sturdy holders and keep them away from flammable materials. Candles can easily tip over and start a fire. Consider using battery-operated candles for a safer alternative.

Cooking up a storm? Stay in the kitchen

Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using the stove or oven. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of house fires. Set a timer to remind you to check on your food regularly.

Check your alarms

Test your smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed. Working smoke alarms can give you an early warning in case of a fire.

Got an e-bike for Christmas? Charge it safely!

E-bikes are a fantastic gift, but it’s important to charge them safely. Always use the charger that came with the bike and avoid charging it overnight or unattended. Make sure to charge your e-bike in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from flammable materials.

Wishing you all a wonderful festive time!