VIDEO: The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are reminding Islanders to stay safe this Christmas by checking that Christmas tree lights carry the British Safety Standard sign.
As the fairy lights are switched on and candles are lit, the presence of a Christmas tree can be potentially life-threatening if the correct steps are not taken to prevent fire. Extra cooking also increases the risk of fire with fat, oil and the potential for accidents to occur.
Within 5 seconds of a fire igniting, your tree is completely engulfed in flames with temperatures reaching hundreds of degrees. At 10 seconds, the flames are now spreading across the ceiling and the room begins to fill with black smoke. Just 10 seconds later, your furniture is alight and the room is now at unbearable temperatures. The clock is ticking.
Within 30 seconds, most of the furniture is alight, visibility is reduced and toxic smoke starts to spread and in less than a minute, the room is full of black, acrid smoke.
In around 8 minutes time, the Isle of Wight Fire Service arrive to a building well alight and not only your Christmas ruined, but your home and in some cases, your life.
Top tips:
• If you have old lights, inspect cables and bulbs for damage
• Do not use lights which are damaged, dispose of them safely
• Keep real Christmas trees watered – do not allow to dry out
• Never overload electrical sockets and always switch off and unplug Christmas tree lights when you go out or go to bed
• Never leave burning candles unattended and keep candles out of the reach of children
• Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do in a fire – in the event of fire: get out, stay out and call 999
