Holiday Fire Safety: Protecting Your Home This Festive Season

It’s hard to believe it, but Christmas is nearly here. Whilst the holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and warmth, it also comes with an increased risk of fires. If you have plans to install festive lights or will be preparing a holiday feast for family and friends, it is important to be mindful of the unique fire hazards which can turn a joyous occasion into a disaster. Here are some of our top tips for holiday fire safety to ensure that your home remains a safe and secure haven this Christmas.   

1. Mindful Decoration Choices 

Christmas lights and ornaments offer visual splendour and are a cherished holiday tradition for many families. If you have plans to deck the halls this Christmas, make mindful choices when it comes to decorations. Opt for flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations to minimise the risk of a fire spreading. Ensure that any lights or other electrical decorations have Australian Standard approval.  

2. Safe Lighting Practices  

Adding twinkling, colourful lights to your home can add a magical touch, but they can also pose a fire hazard if not used safely. Make sure that your power outlets are not damaged, and be careful not to overload them with too many lights. When it’s time for bed, or when nobody is home, lights should be switched off to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of fire.  

3. Use Candles with Caution 

Candles come in a wide variety of sizes and scents, and they are great for creating a cozy, festive atmosphere in your home. Candles should be used responsibly, as they are a leading cause of house fires. Ensure that they are located well away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended. You may also consider using flameless LED candles, which are a popular and safer alternative. When you go to bed or leave your home, candles should be fully extinguished.  

4. Pick Your Christmas Tree Carefully 

There’s nothing better than the smell and appearance of a real Christmas tree. To keep it looking good and reduce your risk of fire, water it regularly to prevent it from drying out. Dry trees are highly flammable and can ignite easily. Trees should be kept at least 2 meters away from heat sources such as fireplaces or cooking areas. If you opt for an artificial free, make sure it is labelled as flame-resistant.  

5. Kitchen Safety Measures 

Preparing the Christmas feast is something the whole family can enjoy, and indeed this is one of the most exciting parts of the festive season. Don’t forget that the kitchen is one of the most common sites for house fires, and with increased cooking activity you should remain vigilant of what is going on around you. Never leave the kitchen unattended whilst cooking, and keep flammable items such as kitchen towels and oven mits away from the stove. It’s a good idea to have a fire extinguisher close by as a precaution.   

6. Plan and Practice Your Escape Route

Even with the best precautions, emergencies can still happen. Have a fire escape plan in place for your family, and practice it regularly. Ensure that everyone knows the primary and alternative escape routes and where to gather outside. Being prepared can make all the difference in minimising injuries and damage in case of a fire.  

Wishing You a Happy and Prosperous Festive Season 

There’s no better time of year than Christmas, and the team at Astute Fire wish you, your family and friends a happy and prosperous festive season. In taking some simple yet effective precautions, you can enjoy the holiday season without compromising the safety of your home and loved ones.  

If you have any concerns about your home fire safety equipment or require further fire safety advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.