Keeping safe this Christmas

Stay safe with decorations 

• Battery-powered, flameless LED candles are a safer alternative to real ones. 

• If you prefer traditional candles, remember to keep them away from Christmas trees, decorations, cards, curtains, or anything that could catch fire. 

Avoid overloading plug sockets 

Electrical fires cause more than half of accidental house fires.  

• Don’t overload plug sockets with multiple extensions or adapters. 

• Charging an e-bike or e-scooter this Christmas? Check the National Fire Chiefs website for safe charging tips. 

• For more advice on plug socket safety, visit Electrical Safety First. 

Cook safely 

More than half of home fires start in the kitchen.  

• Double-check the cooker and hob are turned off when you finish cooking. 

• Never put metal in the microwave. 

• Test your smoke alarms regularly. Some have batteries that may need changing, others are hardwired. If yours doesn’t work, contact us straight away.  

Keep communal areas clear 

Keep shared spaces such as hallways, staircases, and courtyards clear for everyone. 

• Please don’t add decorations or personal items in communal areas. This helps keep escape routes clear in an emergency. 

• Fire doors save lives. Never prop them open and let us know if you spot any damage. 

• Check the Fire Safety Notice in your building’s communal area so you know what to do if there’s a fire. 

We want everyone to enjoy the holidays in a safe and peaceful environment. If you experience anti-social behaviour (ASB) or have a safeguarding concern, please contact us so we can help. You’ll find more details on our ASB help page. 

For more information on a range of safety topics, visit our dedicated Help hub.