THE Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service has reminded people to take extra care during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Many of the things enjoyed during this festive period, such as fairy lights, candles, paper hats and decorations, can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken.
National statistics show that you are 50 per cent more likely to die in an accidental house fire during the Christmas period than at any other time of the year.
The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service has asked the public to follow these 12 safety tips to ensure they stay safe and protect their homes from fire:
1. Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD safety device on outdoor electrical equipment.
2. Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.
3. Make sure your family and visitors staying for the festive period know what to do in an emergency. Practice a fire escape plan.
4. Decorations can burn easily - don't attach them to lights or heaters.
5. 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.
6. Celebrate Christmas and New Year safely. The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed.
7. Most fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended.
8. 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.
9. Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished.
10. Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.
11. Keep candles, lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
12. Take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas - make sure they are fire safe.
Christmas and New Year are times to have fun with family and friends so follow the simple fire safety tips to keep everyone safe so that they can enjoy the festivities.
