Residents of Gloucestershire are being encouraged to prioritise fire safety this festive season by Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) and Gloucestershire Trading Standards.

Fire safety is crucial all year round, but the additional distractions of Christmas make it even more important to stay vigilant. GFRS and Trading Standards are urging everyone to take extra precautions to keep their families and loved ones safe.

Chief Fire Officer Mark Preece said: “Christmas can be the time for relaxing, spending time with family and friends and maybe even overindulging. But fairy lights, candles and decorations mean it is also a time to take extra care to keep our loved ones safe from fire.

“To ensure you have the merriest of Christmases, keep fire safety at the top of your list. Ensure you place candles in suitable holders and away from Christmas cards, decorations, or anything else that may catch alight. Never leave cooking unattended and, of course, test your smoke alarms.”

Jason Poole, Head of Trading Standards and Consumer Protection, emphasised the importance of checking product safety: “When buying products, consumers should check that the product has the correct labelling such as the UKCA mark on products such as toys and electrical goods, which ensure that the product has been tested to comply with safety standards.”

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member for the Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards, added: “We want families in Gloucestershire to have a wonderful Christmas, but please take extra care to make sure you are protected from the dangers of fire. Please ensure that cigarettes are put fully out, never use heaters to dry clothes and ensure you switch off fairy lights and unplug them before going to bed or leaving the house. Also please make sure when buying any products that they have the correct labelling showing they comply with safety standards.”

Simple Tips for a Safe Christmas

To help keep your household safe this Christmas, consider the following tips:

• Install working smoke alarms: Ensure you have smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test them regularly and never remove the batteries.
• Never leave cooking unattended: Most fires start in the kitchen, making it a high-risk area. Avoid cooking if you’ve been drinking alcohol and always turn off appliances after use.
• Avoid drying clothes on heaters: Heaters can ignite nearby items. Keep them well away from decorations, curtains, and furniture.
• Don’t overload sockets: Use only one plug per socket and switch off plugs when not in use, except for devices designed to stay on, like freezers.
• Use an RCD for outdoor decorations: A residual current device (RCD) can instantly cut power in the event of a fault. These are available at DIY stores and are essential for outdoor lights and equipment.
• Check smoke alarms for others: Test alarms for vulnerable relatives or neighbours to ensure they are protected.
• Have an escape plan: Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do in case of a fire. The rule is simple: get out, stay out, and call 999.
• Buy e-bikes and e-scooters safely: Purchase these and their chargers from reputable retailers, and register them with the manufacturer to stay informed about recalls or safety updates.

Additional Resources

For personalised advice tailored to your home, visit www.ohfsc.co.uk to complete a home fire safety check. Further support and guidance can be found on the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service website.

Make fire safety a priority this Christmas to ensure a safe and joyous festive season for you and your loved ones.

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