Top News

With Christmas just around the corner, many families are decorating their homes with trees and festive lights. As one of the most popular traditions, it's common for families to go all out on their decorations, adding lights both inside and outside their houses.

While the lights look beautiful and add some festive cheer to winter evenings, it's important to always follow fire safety advice. According toDorset Fire Protection, Christmas lights are 'one of the biggest fire hazards' during the season.

The experts explained: "Christmas lights are one of the most popular decorations during the festive season but are also one of the biggest fire hazards during Christmas due to the heat that builds the longer they're turned on, and it's important to remember that heat sources should never be left unattended."

Fortunately, there are several steps families can take to help protect themselves and their loved ones, such as regularly checking fire alarms

One simple switch could involve purchasing a timer to ensure Christmas lights aren't left on longer than they should be, which could also lower your electricity bill.

Dorset Fire Protection explains: "If you're forgetful, invest in a Christmas light timer to make sure that your lights are turned off at night or when you're not in the building. Also, if you've left the building and are worried you've forgotten to turn off the lights, take a picture before you leave to give yourself some peace of mind. The timers can also help lessen your electricity bill, making for a happier Christmas."

In similar news, a fire and rescue service has urged people to exercise caution when using extension leads. While some homeowners might struggle to reduce their use, especially if their home has limited wall sockets, it's important to follow safety advice.

A spokesperson for the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "Many portable electric items like lamps and radios are supplied with a relatively short length of cable. Ensuring your home has sufficient socket outlets at convenient points will minimise the need for extension leads and adapters, but their use will occasionally be unavoidable.

"An extension lead should not be used whenever it is possible to reach a wall socket with the equipment cable. However, the equipment cable should never be stretched taut as this may cause a tripping hazard."

The spokesperson added: "Only use extension leads fitted with suitably-insulated connectors and plugs. Never be tempted to join two lengths of flex by twisting the bared ends of wires together, even if you bind them with insulating tape." If an extension lead is damaged, you should stop using the lead and replace it.