THE Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and station commander of Okehampton Fire Station have warned residents to take extra care about fire safety during the busy Christmas period.

A list of precautionary safety measures has been released by the fire service during the festive season, when it is easy to be distracted by presents, food and company. The fire service has warned people to be particularly careful in the kitchen — more than half of accidental fires at Christmas time start in the kitchen.

Among the warnings listed are to avoid cooking after a heavy night out, never leave cooking unattended, take pans off the heat or turn the heat down if you are called away from the cooker, avoid cooking after drinking alcohol or taking prescription drugs, take care with loose clothing as it can catch fire easily, and turn saucepans so the handles do not stick out over the edge of the hob or over another ring.

Okehampton station commander Ian Donovan has his own series of advice to follow during the holiday period.

He said: 'Over the years I have dealt with fires over Christmas, and the most common cause I have encountered is electrical fires due to appliances being overloaded.

'If you have lights or decorations up, make sure you install them following the manufacturer's instructions.

'Do not overload plug sockets - give decorations their own sockets, and avoid using adapters if possible. If you have to use them, make sure they are the right wattage.

'I have been called out to chimney fires at Christmas time before too. Make sure that chimneys are swept before lighting a fire, and make sure they are guarded at night.

'It is always important to check your smoke alarm.

'Make sure it is in working order, that the battery is in working order and in place, and has not been taken for another purpose.

'People love to use candles at Christmas time, but they must ensure careful use of them.

'They must be put in the right place, away from hanging decorations or other fire hazards.

'Make sure to extinguish any candles before heading off to bed or leaving the room unattended.

'Wrapping paper and waste can pile up during the Christmas period. Try not to let it pile up in the corner of a room, as such flammable materials can help a fire to start or take hold.'

For more on fire safety and how you can prevent fire in your home, visit http://www.dsfire.gov.uk">www.dsfire.gov.uk