Deniliquin Fire + Rescue NSW brigade is spreading the word on fire safety for the festive season, especially when it comes to those light up decorations we all love.
Brigade member Rebecca White said there have already been a few “festive season fires in other regions”.
She wants people to follow simple tips for a happy and safe Christmas period.
“Following the guidelines will help keep families safe this Christmas, and we want everybody to have a wonderful Christmas,” she said.
The safety checklist recommendations are:
• When setting up fairy lights and other electrical displays use only one item per power socket and don’t overload power boards or piggy back double adaptors;
• If you use a power board, ensure it has both overload protection and earth leakage protection devices incorporated;
• Check lights and electronic decorations for faults, worn plugs and frayed cords.
• Decorative lights may become very hot so keep away from children and flammable materials such as wrapping paper, decorations or curtains. And don’t leave burning candles unattended;
• Switch off all electrical displays and decorative lights before going to bed; and
• Make sure you have a sufficient number of working smoke alarms throughout your home. These must be tested regularly and should be supported by a written home escape plan in case of fire.