Staying Safe During Christmas

The Christmas period brings joy to many, but it also carries risks. It’s important to enjoy the festivities safely so that you make good memories with your loved ones. Follow our simple safety tips and yourself have a merry little (and safe) Christmas!

Cooking over Christmas

Food is a big part of Christmas for lots of people, and many of us find ourselves working in the kitchen for hours. Whenever you’re cooking, please take proper safety precautions around heat sources. That means your oven, hob, grill, air fryer, toaster – the list goes on.

You can learn more about cooking safety on our dedicated webpage.

Here are our top safety tips for the kitchen:

  • Keep all hob tops and grills clear – don’t use them for storage.

  • Never place oven gloves or tea towels near hobs.

  • Clean your cooking area regularly so grease and crumbs don’t build up.

  • Avoid drinking when cooking. This can impair your judgement.

  • Don’t leave cooking unattended. If you need to leave, always turn the cooker off.

Getting distracted while cooking is one of the most common causes of kitchen fires. Delivery at the door? Need to answer the phone? The kids wreaking havoc? Remember to switch off the heat source before stepping away. This can save you from a holiday-ruining fire.

Festive electrical safety

From lights and toys to decorations, electrical items are everywhere over Christmas. Electricity is such an integral part of life that it’s easy to overlook electrical safety. But it can cause a fire. That’s why it’s key to think about how you use electricity throughout the year.

You can learn more about electrical safety on our dedicated webpage.

Follow our Christmas electrical safety guidance:

  • Check your fairy lights are in good working over before use.

  • Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords when hanging lights and decorations.

  • Switch off all lights and decorations when you go to bed.

  • Never overload your sockets. Check using this tool (opens in a new tab).

  • Buy your electrical items from reputable retailers only.

You might consider buying an e-bike or e-scooter as a gift this Christmas. We recommend only buying these high-powered items from legitimate retailers. Only charge these using an official charger, and never on your escape route. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Other ways to stay safe

As always, we recommend having working smoke alarms on each level of your home. These are the best defence to protect you and your loved ones in an emergency.

Why not plan an escape route and make sure everyone at home knows it? You’ll probably never need it, but this can make a huge difference in the event of a fire.

If you plan to have a drink this Christmas, consider ordering a takeaway or making a sandwich in advance. Avoid cooking altogether if you have been drinking or taking drugs. It’s not worth it.

If you can, check in on vulnerable family members or neighbours over Christmas. They might need your help to make sure they’re keeping safe.

Firefighters with Santa

Merry Christmas from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service

At Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, we want you to enjoy a wonderful Christmas. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to follow our safety advice. If you do have a fire, remember: get out, stay out, and call us out on 999. Don’t try to tackle the fire yourself. This is when many people get hurt. We are ready to help you 24/7, so don’t hesitate to call in an emergency.