According to the National Fire Protection Association the Christmas holidays are a particularly dangerous time for home fires. The following advice will help you be aware of the ways in which your home could be at risk from fire this Christmas, and show you how to devise a fire protection system to keep your family and friends safe.

What's so Dangerous about Christmas?
National Fire Protection Association data has shown that this time of year is particularly risky for the following reasons:

• Candles: started 18,000 home fires in 2001.
• Christmas Trees: caused 241 home fires in 2002.
• Cooking: left unattended is a leading cause of home fires.
• Guests: can start a fire by not putting out their cigarettes properly.

During the festive season we burn more candles, put up more decorations and do more cooking and entertaining than at other times of year; this means that it is an especially important time for us to think about setting up an effective fire protection system

Create Your Own Home Fire Protection System

• Smoke Alarm: an essential part of any home fire protection system; make sure you have them installed around the house and that they are in good working order.
• Fire Extinguishers: save lives by putting out small fires or containing a larger fire until the arrival of the fire department. Select a multi-purpose extinguisher for home use.
• Home Fire Escape Plan: make sure that you, your family and friends are all aware of what to do if a smoke alarm goes off - it can make the difference between life and death!

These simple tips should help you put together an effective home fire protection system that will protect you safe this Christmas and help you enjoy a happy and worry-free holiday.