People in Cumbria are being reminded to take extra care to prevent accidental fires this Christmas, especially if they rent their home.
The warning comes following a fatal fire in an apartment in the Harraby area of Carlisle.
Figures show that people are 50 per cent more likely to die in an accidental house fire at Christmas than any other time of the year.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is also concerned that people who rent their home may be more at risk than owner occupiers because of uncertainty about who should check that the property is safe - landlords as well as people renting should carry out regular checks.
A special festive season campaign is urging people to say safe an protect their homes against fire by following the 'Fire Kills' top Twelve Days of Christmas tips for festive fire safety:
- Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment - a safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off the power
- Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning
- Make sure your family and visitors staying for the festive period know what to do in an emergency. Practice a fire escape plan
- Decorations can burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters
- Switch off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they’re designed to stay on. Take special care with Christmas lights. Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before you go to bed
- Celebrate Christmas and New Year safely. The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed
- Most fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended
- If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby
-Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished
- Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust
- Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children
- Take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas - make sure they are fire safe
You can find a copy of the Twelve Days of Christmas top tips and more information about fire safety at www.firekills.gov.uk
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service operates a freephone number - 0800 358 4777 - which people can call to arrange a free Home Safety Check and receive other useful safety information. Landlords who would like a check of their properties can also call this number.
Simon Kelly, a Community Risk Manager with Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, said:
"I would urge everyone to make sure they follow the Twelve Days of Christmas tips, and not to hesitate to get in touch with us for any help or advice."
ENDS
Further information from Alison Lister, Media Team, on 01228 606335