Stay safe during the festive period and involve everyone including the kids in your Fire Strategy for your home.

Don't let your guard down over the festive period, get everyone involved including the kids and start to influence them now for the future when it comes to Fire Safety in the home. It’s never too early to teach them and encourage them from an early age to be safe.

With all the hustle and bustle of Christmas and New Year, the last thing most people think about is fire safety. But the latest figures show that the number of fire related deaths and injuries have seen a sharp rise over the years during the festive period.

Don't let your guard down over the festive period, get everyone involved including the kids and start to influence them now for the future when it comes to Fire Safety in the home. It’s never too early to teach them and encourage them from an early age to be safe.

With all the rushing about and the copious amounts of alcohol and the late nights, plus all the trappings of the highly inflammable decorations, makes for a treacherous combination.

Even though most people will be familiar with all the dangers of fire itself, there are still many who are unaware that the smoke from such a laze can knock you unconscious and even kill within seconds.

"The fact is that fires can and do happen, so it's important to check your smoke alarm weekly and to be aware of the dangers”

"Ignorance is definitely not bliss when it comes to keeping your family safe."

However by being safe doesn't mean having to take the fun and joy out of the party season. By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure your Christmas is one to remember for all the right reasons!

• Be careful with electrical appliances and don’t overload circuits.
• Use the correct fuse for appliances always. The wrong fuse can significantly increase the risk from fire.
• Use Christmas decorations that are non flammable.
• If you are spraying your Christmas tree with a preservative then use the correct non flammable substance.
• Don’t let Christmas tree bulbs touch paper decorations.
• If a bulb blows on your Christmas tree lights then replace it straight away.
• Don’t leave your Christmas tree lights on when you go to bed or go out.
• Check your fire alarm is functioning and tested regularly. Every week is a good way to go.
• Tell your children what you’re doing and why regarding fire safety. Start them young and give them fire awareness for the rest of their lives.

From everyone at McDonald-Martin here’s hoping that you all have an incident free holiday and a very happy Xmas and New Year!

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