Turn your fairy lights off at night to ensure a safe Christmas

Over three million households leave their Christmas tree lights on all the time, or overnight, potentially putting their homes at risk of fire, according to new research. Unsafe electrical decorations, poor quality lights, overloaded plugs, and dried out trees are all potential hazards which could lead to a fire.  Analysis of Zurich UK data shows fire-related claims spike in December when compared to the monthly average,  and while candles are the main cause of fires during the festive period , this is closely followed by electrical appliances and wiring. As millions of families get into the festive spirit, three quarters (77%) of Brits will illuminate their Christmas tree with electric lights. Two fifths (39%) put up decorative lights around the house, while a fifth (21%) use fairy lights to decorate the outside of their homes. However, people could unknowingly be putting their households at risk. As many as 6% of people leave their Christmas tree lights on permanently, not turning them off until they take them down, and a further 6% leave them on overnight - only turning them off when the house is empty. Decorations are a central part of Christmas but while fairy lights add festive sparkle, they can be dangerous if some simple checks are overlooked. Here are some tips to reduce the risk: •  Check your fairy lights carry the British Safety Standard sign. •  Don’t over load sockets and switch them off and unplug them when you’re out and when you go to bed. •  Don’t place the tree and decorations near candles or the fireplace. Ensure it is properly watered so not to dry out. A burning tree can rapidly fill a room with fire. •  Don't attach decorations to lights or heaters. •  Never leave burning candles unattended. •  Test your smoke alarms monthly and only remove batteries when replacing them. •  Be neighbourly. Take time to check on older relatives and neighbours this Christmas as they are at greater risk from fire. Simple actions like these will help make sure the only flame during the season is on your Christmas pudding.