Stay safe during Christmas celebrations

‘Tis the season to be jolly. Or at least, it soon will be. And even if you read this after festive celebrations are over, there’s always other events such as Epiphany, Easter etc. Or birthdays. Let’s be honest, when it’s gloomy and clouded-over and you feel that slight shiver walking down the street (even if you’ve bought a furry coat from one of the many splendid shops in Tunbridge Wells, Southborough, Maidstone, etc) – you will be thinking about huddling indoors.

And we all know what huddling indoors means. It means enjoying a fire indoors! Winter gives a great excuse for a celebration. In fact, several celebrations. In fact, celebrating by yourself (and why not? What could be better than nursing a glass of port with Mr Tom your pussy cat or Fido your faithful hound curled on your lap, while staring thoughtfully into the dancing flames of your indoor fire?).

Let’s enjoy safe celebrations, however. Make sure your chimney is swept by James the Sweep (if you live in Kent or Sussex) before using your stove or open fire. That’s safety tip number 1. Obvious – but so often overlooked. Not having your chimney swept regularly results in a dangerous risk of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. Check too that your stove appliance or open fire are in good working order. Any doubts at all, ask your installer (or call James the Sweep if you’re in the Tunbridge Wells area). Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for stoves.

That was tip 2. Equally important is tip 3 the last tip: common sense precautions. That means don’t store dry wood near the indoor fire. You have probably seen photos in magazines or the internet of the so-called ideal home, with a lounge, a fireplace with a lit fire and stacks of wood all around the area of the appliance. It’s a fire hazard. Wood should have a moisture content of 20 per cent or less and be placed outside in a proper log store until ready for use. Be aware too of other fire hazards in the room – anything else flammable near the fire or anything lying on the floor (specially with kids), which could cause someone to trip over.

And if you have a celebration party (even if it’s just and the cat or dog) make sure that there are no crazy antics near the fireplace. Have fun… but be careful!