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Christmas Fire Risks: Hidden Dangers in Your Decorations
7 Dec, 2025
Summary
- December sees a peak in house fires, often linked to festive decor.
- Flammable decorations like tinsel and dried wreaths pose fire hazards.
- Faulty or low-quality fairy lights can easily overheat and ignite.
The festive season brings a heightened risk of house fires, with December being the peak month. Experts highlight that common Christmas decorations, including tinsel, dried wreaths, and paper chains, are highly flammable. These items should be kept away from heat sources and open flames to prevent accidents during the holiday period.
Lighting is another major concern, with damaged or low-quality fairy lights posing a risk of overheating and ignition. It is advised to replace faulty lights with superior alternatives and to switch them off when going to bed or leaving the property. Similarly, candles require constant supervision and should be extinguished before leaving a room or sleeping.
Real Christmas trees also present a fire hazard if not properly cared for; regular watering is essential to reduce flammability. Positioning the tree away from heat sources and ensuring tree lights are switched off at night are critical safety measures. For outdoor decorations, using weatherproof lighting with appropriate IP ratings, such as 65 in the UK, is vital to withstand wet conditions and prevent electrical fires.
