Top tips to stay safe from fire this Christmas

Spending time at home during the festive season often means Christmas tree lights, log fires and candles which all pose a potential risk of fire.

To keep you safe this Christmas Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service have gathered some top tips in time for the festivities.

• Check your Christmas tree lights are in good working order and conform to the British Standard (BS EN 60598)

• Always unplug Christmas lights before leaving the house or going to bed

• Do not overload sockets - these can be a big fire risk

• Fully extinguish any cigarettes and never smoke in bed

• Check all of your smoke alarms - if they don't work replace them or if you don't have one treat yourself to an early Christmas present

• Take some time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours - check their smoke alarms are in good working order

• Never leave burning candles unattended

• Keep all candles, lighters and matches out of the reach of children

• Don't attach decorations to lights or heaters as they can burn easily and don't hang them close to candles

• Make sure family, friends and visitors staying for the festive period know how to escape in an emergency - tell them where door and window keys are kept

• The kitchen is a high risk area - make sure you don't leave your Christmas dinner unattended

• Switch off the oven and hob if you leave the house

• The risk of accidents is greater after a few alcoholic drinks - make sure you take care in the kitchen