Take care with your Christmas tree and decorations
Putting a Christmas tree up along with decorations and cards is enjoyable, but make sure they’re not placed near fireplaces and candles. If your tree is real, ensure it’s well watered daily, as a dry tree is far more likely to catch fire.
Don’t forget about those twinkling fairy lights
Fairy lights look so pretty this time of year, but they could pose a fire risk. Make sure you switch them off and unplug them if you leave your home, and before you go to bed.
Keep an eye on your kitchen
Give yourself enough time to prepare and cook a celebration dinner to avoid accidents that come from rushing. Quickly wipe up any flammable spills such as cooking oil. Most home fires begin in the kitchen.
Simplify your plug sockets
Getting gifts is always fun, but don’t overload plug sockets with cables for new electrical gadgets and appliances, and always read the instructions first.
Be mindful of open fire hazards
If you’re displaying your menorah in the window, make sure your curtains and any other flammable materials are kept well clear. As with other naked flames such as candles, don’t leave them unattended or somewhere where a child or animal could knock them over.
If you like it, don’t put a wreath on it
If you live in a shared communal space with a courtyard, hallway, staircase etc, you’re not allowed to decorate the outside of your home backing onto that communal area.
It’s not because we don’t want you to celebrate Christmas or any other occasion, it’s because items left in communal spaces can cause problems if there’s an emergency. While a wreath and other festive trimmings may not necessarily be a hazard, bikes, shoes, doormats and other items are, and this is why we have a blanket policy.
But most importantly…
Have a safe and happy holiday! We wish you and your loved ones a joyous festive season and happy New Year.