WITH Christmas dinners to cook, presents to wrap and homes to decorate, festive to-do lists are already piling up.

But Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service – alongside the national Fire Kills campaign – is urging residents to add one more crucial item to the top: fire safety.

While staying fire-aware is essential all year round, the service warns that the extra distractions of the festive season make vigilance more important than ever.

Prevention delivery manager Vikki Thomas said: “Christmas can be the time for relaxing, spending time with family and friends and maybe even overindulging. But fairy lights, candles and decorations mean it is also a time to take extra care to keep our loved ones safe from fire.”

She added that the colder weather also brings risks: “Take care when using portable heaters or open fires to keep warm.”

The message is clear – a few simple precautions can prevent Christmas celebrations from turning into tragedy.

Residents are reminded to keep candles in suitable holders and away from cards or decorations, never leave cooking unattended and test smoke alarms regularly.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has shared a series of festive safety tips from the Fire Kills campaign to help households stay protected:

• Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them frequently.
• Never leave cooking unattended and avoid using the kitchen if you’ve been drinking.
• Keep burning candles away from children, decorations, wrapping paper and heaters – and never leave them unattended.
• Stub cigarettes out fully, especially if you’re tired or have been drinking.
• Don’t use heaters to dry clothes and keep them clear of fabrics, curtains and furniture.
• Avoid overloading sockets and switch off plugs when not in use.
• Switch off and unplug Christmas tree lights before bed or when leaving the house, and make sure they meet British Standards.
• Use an RCD for outdoor lights and electrical decorations.
• Check the smoke alarms of vulnerable relatives or neighbours.
• Make sure everyone at home knows what to do in an emergency: Get out, stay out, and call 999.

The service also encourages residents to visit its website for personalised advice and to check whether they qualify for a free home fire safety visit.

“From everyone at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, we wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas,” the team said.