Decorating your home is one of the many pleasures of the festive season. There is nothing quite like the sight of the tinsel, tree and Christmas lights going up to get you into the spirit of the season.
It is important to keep in mind the safety issues though – read on to discover some top tips.
Check your lights
Putting up lights is essential to creating a Christmas mood, but you should inspect them carefully first.
Check your string lights for signs of wires that are frayed, bulbs that are broken or sockets that are damaged, as these are common safety risks. Any wires or lights that show signs of wear and tear should be replaced, but you can also cut the risks by switching to LED lights. These emit less heat, reducing fire dangers.
Pick fire-resistant decorations
It is possible to buy decorations that are made out of materials resistant to fire. This includes everything from tinsel to artificial Christmas trees.
What you should be looking for is labels that show compliance with the existing safety standards. You can also use fire resistant sprays on the decorations to minimise the risk they pose.
Place decorations carefully
A lot of the safety issues when it comes to decorating for Christmas are basic common sense. Make sure you do not place flammable decorations anywhere near sources of heat – such as fireplaces and candles. They should also be kept a clear distance from radiators or heaters.
If you follow these simple pointers, you’ll be sure to have a fun and safe family Christmas!
