Fire safety advice issued for Christmas in Northern Lincolnshire

Families in Northern Lincolnshire are being urged to stay fire-aware this Christmas, as local fire services see a seasonal increase in callouts.

Humberside Fire and Rescue have highlighted key risks, such as overloaded sockets, candles, and damaged Christmas lights, which can lead to serious fires.

Safety tips for electrical items

Kieran from Humberside Fire and Rescue explained that one of the most common issues is overloaded sockets and extension leads, often referred to as "daisy chaining."

He advised people to check Christmas lights for damage or frayed wires before using them and to replace old lights with newer ones if necessary.

Using the correct chargers and plugs designed for the items is important, as is avoiding overloading extension leads.

“Just because something is small, like a string of lights, it doesn’t mean it can’t start a serious fire,” Kieran said.

Candle safety advice

Another fire risk highlighted relates to candles, particularly when placed near curtains, decorations, or cards.

Kieran urged people to use proper, stable candle holders, keep candles out of reach of children and pets, and never leave them unattended, even for a short time.

“When people leave or even fall asleep, candles left burning can cause serious issues,” Kieran said.

Humberside Fire and Rescue are asking everyone to be vigilant and take these precautions to avoid fire risks in the festive season.