A CHRISTMAS message for isleofman.com readers from the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service:
"Christmas is the time of year when people are usually running around snapping up their last minute bargains. Fire safety is often the last thing on their mind when they are heading out to the shops.
"This information is not designed to alarm people but we do want all of our residents to be mindful that fires often start when your attention stops and at Christmas time simple distractions such as party games and friends and families coming to dinner can so easily result in a burnt turkey or even worse!
"But by taking a few simple steps this Christmas fire risks can be reduced around the home and everybody can enjoy a happy and fire safe Christmas.
"We all know that Christmas is a time when extra fire hazards are introduced into the home such as portable heaters, open fires that have not been lit for a long time, fairy lights, candles and decorations and we all need to be extra vigilant as fires can easily start.
"We would appeal to everyone to celebrate Christmas responsibly, especially if they have been drinking, and to look out for the young and elderly who are particularly vulnerable to accidental fires in the home.
"We would also like to remind you of the need to ensure your smoke alarm is working. Having a smoke alarm fitted in the home is not enough. Smoke alarms need to be checked every week to make sure they work so that they will alert you in the event of a fire giving you time to make your escape.
"We want everyone to enjoy themselves and to be safe during Christmas. If everyone takes just a little extra time each day to make sure they are following our basic safety advice then it can be a happy and safe Christmas for all."
The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service have put together a 12 tips to help residents stay safe over the Christmas period:
1. Check your Christmas tree lights make sure the wiring isn't split and they conform to a British Standard. In addition check you have the correct fuse. 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 and never hang them above an open fire or a heater.
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 reach of children.
12. In the spirit of festive goodwill, take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours particularly if we are going through a cold snap. Make sure they are safe from fire.
"Christmas and New Year celebrations are times to have fun with family and friends, so please follow our simple fire safety tips to keep everyone safe to enjoy the festivities.
"Finally, as in every season, have working and tested smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them once a week and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times.
"Know when and how to call for help and remember to practice your home escape plan. Remember, if you do discover a fire: Get out, sty out and call 999.
"On behalf of the Chief Fire Officer and all his staff please have a safe fire free Christmas and a prosperous New Year."
