Festive Fire Safety Tips
The festive season is a time for celebration, but it also brings extra fire risks. Please take a few simple steps to keep your home and family safe.
Fire Safety in Your Home
- Check your lights
Always use Christmas lights that carry the British Safety Standard mark (look for the BSI Kitemark or BS EN number). This means they’ve been tested and meet UK safety regulations. Before going to bed or leaving the house, switch off and unplug all festive lights to reduce the risk of overheating or electrical faults.
- Avoid overloaded sockets
Plugging too many items into one socket can cause overheating and fires. Stick to one plug per socket wherever possible. If you need to use extension leads, make sure they are high quality and never connect multiple leads together (known as “daisy-chaining”), as this is a major fire hazard.
- Candles with care
Candles create a cosy atmosphere, but they can be dangerous if not used properly. Keep them well away from decorations, cards, curtains, and anything that could catch fire. Always place candles in sturdy holders on a heat-resistant surface and never leave them burning when you leave the room or go to sleep.
- Cook safely
The kitchen is the most common place for fires to start. Stay alert when cooking, especially during busy festive gatherings. Never leave pans unattended on the hob and avoid cooking if you’ve been drinking alcohol. If a pan catches fire, never throw water on it—turn off the heat if safe and cover with a lid.
- Test smoke alarms
A working smoke alarm gives you vital time to escape in an emergency. Test your alarms weekly and report any faulty alarms to star immediately.
- Plan your fire escape
Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if a fire breaks out. Agree on an escape route and keep it clear at all times. Store keys for doors and windows in an accessible place so you can get out quickly if needed.
Keeping Your Communal Areas Safe
If you live in a home with shared communal areas such as hallways, stairwells, or landings, please do not store cardboard, rubbish bags, pushchairs, shopping trolleys or any household items in these spaces. These areas are vital escape routes and must be kept clear at all times. Obstructions can block exits and become hazards in smoke-filled conditions. STAR Housing operates a zero-tolerance policy for items left in shared spaces, including decorative items, furniture, and waste. Keeping these areas clear could save lives.
Please also ensure that any meter or service cupboards in communal areas are kept closed and locked. Open cupboards can pose a serious fire and safety risk.
If you notice items blocking a shared space or have any concerns about communal entrances or fire doors, please report them to us:
Call: 0333 32 12 200
Email: enquiries@starhousing.org.uk
Safety Tips for Charging Rechargeable Devices
Many festive gifts and everyday items use rechargeable lithium batteries—phones, tablets, e‑scooters, power tools. Charging them safely is essential to prevent overheating and fire risk:
- Use the Right Charger
Always use the manufacturer’s charger or a compatible one recommended for your device. Cheap or unapproved chargers can overheat and fail.
- Avoid Overcharging
Unplug devices once fully charged. Leaving them connected for long periods can cause battery wear and increase overheating risk.
- Charge on Safe Surfaces
Place devices on a hard, flat surface while charging—never on beds, sofas, or near flammable materials.
- Watch for Heat
If your device or charger feels unusually hot, disconnect immediately and allow it to cool before using again.
- Check Cables
Inspect charging cables regularly. Replace any that are frayed, damaged, or showing exposed wires.
- Keep Dry
Never charge near water or in damp areas. Moisture and electricity are a dangerous mix.
- Avoid Overnight Charging
Especially for older devices, avoid leaving them plugged in while you sleep. This reduces the risk of overheating.
- Store Batteries Properly
Keep spare batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions
Always read and follow the safety guidance provided with your device.
Christmas should be memorable for the right reasons. By following these simple steps, you’ll help keep your home and community safe. Share these tips with friends and family and let’s all enjoy a safe and happy festive season.
