How to avoid a domestic fire this Christmas

It really would be the nightmare before Christmas to wake up with your home on fire. As the days get darker and the nights get colder, more electric appliances are put to work and more fires are stoked up. While this makes the house more cosy and festive, it also increases the chances of a domestic fire. Reduce the risk of a domestic fire this Christmas by following the steps below.

Check fire alarms

You can check your fire alarm by pressing the test button. This will cause the alarm to sound - if nothing happens, you should assume that the battery is dead and needs replacing. Most battery powered smoke detectors have a light that will let you know if they are working. Often people turn off sensitive alarms but this can result in a fire that you are unaware of. It is responsible to check your fire alarms every six months and never leave the firm alarms disabled. If you are unsure about your fire alarm system, enlist the help of a professional for your firm alarm installation.

Purchase a fire extinguisher

In the event that a fire actually occurs, you’ll want to be able to put it out as quickly as possible. Purchase a fire extinguisher for each room where fires are most likely to happen, such as the kitchen as well as any room with an open fire or frequently used electric appliance such as an iron or heater.

Clean your chimney

It is prudent to have your chimney cleaned at the beginning of the winter season. Your chimney should be cleared of anything that could cause an unexpected and uncontrollable blaze such as obstructions or flammable chemicals. When choosing fuel for your fire, you should ensure that you use dry firewood as this will release fewer chemicals and create less build up in your chimney.

Use a fire guard

If you have an open fire or wood burner, make sure that you have a fire guard. Not only will this prevent children (and adults!) from burning themselves but it also prevents rogue sparks from escaping the heath and setting the floor or nearby objects alight. It is also important to enlist a fire guard at the end of the night, even if the fire looks like it is out as this will help avoid domestic fires overnight.

Turn off electric heaters

It’s easy to forget that you have a heater on and leave it when you go out or overnight. However, overheating can cause the electrics to fault and could lead to an electrical fire. Make sure you remember to help stay safe and to save yourself some money on electricity bills.

Feel safe during the festive season with Ace Fire Alarms

Protect yourself and your family this Christmas by checking your house for fire hazards in advance. If you’re not sure what is a potential fire hazard in your home, you may want to call some experts. Ace Fire provides fire alarms systems in Plymouth, fire alarm installation in Plymouth as well as tips on fire safety.

Contact us today if you require advice and help with your fire alarm system in Plymouth. We can provide fire risk assessments, fire safety tests and fire alarm installation of professional fire safety equipment. Get in touch with our friendly team on 0800 195 6393 if you’d like to learn more.