Fire safety tips for the Advent season

In the run-up to Christmas and during the festive season, it is a good tradition to decorate the home with Advent wreaths made from conifer branches, straw or other pretty materials. The burning candles of the Advent wreath are particularly appealing to children. However, carelessness can be the cause of considerable fire damage.

What you should look out for

Candlelight is so beautiful that it deserves constant attention. Above all, small children or pets should never be left alone with candles. This is another opportunity to test all smoke alarms (depending on the model, press and hold the test button). It is mandatory in rented and owner-occupied residential buildings in both new and existing buildings.

Candles should only be placed near non-flammable objects and need a stable holder. It is also important to keep matches and lighters in a childproof place. Candles on Advent wreaths and flower arrangements should be placed on a non-flammable surface. They should be extinguished in good time before they burn down - fir greenery dries out over time and becomes a fire hazard. It is also a good idea to have a bucket of water, fire extinguisher or fire extinguishing sprays to hand. Open fires are often prohibited in the workplace. The company fire safety regulations apply in each case.

What to do in the event of fire

If a fire does break out, the following applies:

• Try to extinguish the fire, but under no circumstances put yourself in danger
• Close the room door
• Leave the building or apartment with all family members
• Call the fire department immediately on 112.