Chinese New Year (16 February 2018) is an important celebration in the Chinese calendar. For many, it’s a time to celebrate at home and cooking for family and friends.
With people spending more time at home – cooking while entertaining or relaxing with family or friends, the risk of fire increases. People are more likely to be distracted during this time of year and therefore more vulnerable to fire.
By taking just a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce the risk of fire:
- Keep candles out of reach of children and animals – children should be supervised at all times near flames. Keep flames from candles at a safe distance from curtains, furniture and decorations. Long hair and clothing are also very flammable. Candle safety tips.
- Use fireworks with caution – only buy fireworks marked with British Safety Standard 7114 and always read the instructions. Fireworks safety tips.
- We would encourage you not to use flying lanterns – but if you do use them then please read our safety advice before using them. Lantern safety tips.
- Avoid overloading electrical sockets – try to remember, one plug – one socket. Electrical fire safety.
- Never leave cooking unattended. If you do need to leave the kitchen whilst cooking, take pans off the heat or turn them down to avoid risk. Cooking safety tips.
- Fit working smoke alarms on each floor level in your home. Consider buying a ten-year alarm – otherwise test the alarm once a week and change the batteries every year. Smoke alarms advice.