Fire Kills - you can prevent it

Fire safety can be the last thing on your mind when you’re celebrating. But if you’re having a party, celebrating a religious holiday, or holding a firework display you should be aware of the risks and plan ahead to protect your friends and family from fire. Remember to stay safe when you are having fun!

Parties and celebrations

When you are having a party, there can be a greater risk of fire. There are more people in your home, you could be cooking in a rush, or you may be putting up decorations, lights and candles.

The following are just some of the steps you can take to stay safe when you are planning any parties or celebrations:

• make sure your guests know the escape route in the event of a fire
• put out enough ashtrays for smokers.

Fairy lights and candles

Fairy lights make your home look festive and bright, but it is important to remember to use them safely.

• always unplug fairy lights when you leave the house or go to bed
• keep the bulbs away from things that burn easily, like paper or fabrics.

Candles can be dangerous. If you do use them in your home, always put them out when you leave the room, and keep them away from flammable materials such as greeting cards and decorations. Also, never place candles on a Christmas tree.

More tips on using candles safely in your home

Fireworks

Fireworks are fun but they should be used in a safe and sensible way. Here are some of the steps which you should take when having a fireworks display:

• stand well back from lit fireworks
• never go back to a firework once it has been lit
• keep a bucket of water nearby.

• Firework safety (opens in a new window)

Follow the links below for lots more useful information from the Fire Kills campaign on Directgov on staying safe while celebrating - whether it’s a firework display or a party.

• Celebrating safely
  
• Fire safety when celebrating (PDF, 570kb)