FOR SOME people, putting the Christmas decorations up is something waited for in anticipation all year.

For others it may be a chore and for plenty, it almost certainly start arguments on the ‘correct’ way to decorate the tree and other such trivialities.

But one thing Christmas decorations can also spark, is a fire.

With lights being wrapped up in knots in the attic for 11 months of the year, there is often a chance that wires can be damaged, and the number of decorations plugged into sockets – sometimes of questionable quality – can lead to the most wonderful time of the year ending in disaster.

Fire services across the country are warning people to be aware as part of their latest safety campaign.

Justin Evans, head of community safety at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to stay safe this December, by checking decorations and being wary of overloading sockets.

“I know that residents across the region will be preparing their displays and I would ask them to do so safely, by not overloading sockets and using correctly fused multi-gang safety leads,” said Justin.

“Many people will have a variety of electrical devices on their Christmas lists this year – be conscious of overloading, do not charge items overnight and use chargers from a reputable source rather than cheap aftermarket chargers.

“The build up to Christmas and New Year can be a time to relax and enjoy being with family and friends – but extra vigilance is vital to prevent a fire that could easily devastate the family home with the loss of presents and valuables, seriously injuring or even worse killing you or a loved one.”

Twelve festive fire safety tips have been drawn up by the fire service, to alleviate any chance of a fire.

They say:

You should check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard and Always use an RCD safety device on outdoor electrical equipment;

You should never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings and don’t leave them burning unattended;

Make sure your family and visitors staying for the festive period know what to do in an emergency and practice a fire escape plan;

Decorations can burn easily, so don’t attach them to lights or heaters;

Switch off electrical appliances when not in use unless they’re designed to stay on;

Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before going to bed and don’t overload sockets and plugs but use correctly fused multi gang safety leads;

Most fires start in the kitchen, so never leave cooking unattended;

Celebrate Christmas and New Year safely, as the risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed;

If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby;

Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished;

Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust;

Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children;

And finally take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas and make sure they are fire safe as well as checking on their well-being.

Justin added: “Everyone likes to enjoy themselves over the holiday period, and we are just asking them to keep safety in mind while celebrating.

“I would also like to remind residents about the dangers of leaving cooking unattended and cooking after drinking alcohol - cooking and drinking just do not mix.

“We all need to consider the possible consequences of our actions and think safe to stay safe.

“I would also ask everyone to consider elderly or vulnerable family or neighbours, and ensure they get their home checked too.

“The early warning provided by a smoke alarm can allow vital minutes to help them escape unharmed.”