Huddersfield fire service warning over drinking before cooking

Dec 11 2010 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

FIREFIGHTERS are urging Christmas cooks to refrain from drinking alcohol while at the stove.

West Yorkshire Fire Service has issued tips to stop your Christmas going up in smoke.

The service recommends:

l Take extra care when using candles;

l Check your Christmas lights are in good working order;

l Make sure your smoke alarm works.

l Make sure relatives staying with you over Christmas are familiar with escape routes.

Craig McIntosh, who is director of fire safety, said: “Christmas is a time to spend with our nearest and dearest, so please give them the best gift ever and ensure that you have working smoke alarms installed.

“They will give you the valuable seconds needed to escape in the event of a fire.

“Spirits can run high over the festive period, with people drinking more than any other time of year.

“It can be very tempting to cook yourself some supper when you return from a night out, but unfortunately this decision could cost you your home and your life.

“We want everyone to celebrate safer and enjoy the festivities,” added Mr McIntosh.

For full information on the Celebrate Safer Campaign and for free safety advice log on to www.celebratesafer.co.uk