Celebrate Chinese New Year Safely

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) is encouraging everyone to have a safe and happy Chinese New Year which commences on Friday 16 February 2018.

Also known as ‘Spring Festival’, Chinese New Year is a time for many people to celebrate the end of an old year and the beginning of a new one. Traditionally, people celebrate by hosting communal meals and firework/lantern displays, so with this comes an increased risk of fire.

Station Manager for Prevention and Inclusion, Richard Wort said: “Whilst Chinese New Year is a time that sees many families come together to celebrate, it can also bring an added risk of fire. With an increase in the use of candles, fireworks and lanterns, I would encourage everyone to check the following safety tips so everyone can enjoy the start of the Year of the Dog!”

Candle safety:

Always put out candles before you leave a room and before you go to bed.
Always place candles in a suitable holder to prevent them from falling over.
Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
Keep candles away from clothes and hair – do not lean across candles.
Keep candles out of draughts and away from curtains and other fabrics or furniture.

Firework safety:

Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.
Store fireworks in a metal box.
Light firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
Don’t put fireworks in your pocket and NEVER throw them.
Read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if necessary.
Always keep a bucket of water on hand.

Of course no celebration is complete without food. With extra cooking taking place during the celebrations, there is an increased risk of kitchen fires.

Take extra care when deep-fat frying or cooking with oil. Hot oil can catch fire easily. Use a thermostat controlled deep-fat fryer which will ensure the fat doesn’t get too hot.
NEVER leave cooking unattended.
Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing – they can easily catch fire. If this happens, remember to Stop, Drop and Roll.
Keep tea towels, clothes and electrical leads away from the cooker and hob.
Check that the oven or hob are switched off after you have finished cooking.

Have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home. This means smoke will reach your alarm much quicker, giving you and your family those vital extra seconds to Get Out, Stay Out and Call 999.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service wishes everybody a safe and happy Chinese New Year.

For more safety advice and information please visit www.derbys-fire.gov.uk

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