DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service have released its top tips to make Christmas fire-safe.

December is the busiest month of the year for house fires, the fire service say.

‘Here are some tips for reducing your risk of fire for the top three causes of fire around Christmas time’ a spokesperson for the service said.

• Cooking

Cooking is the cause of nearly half of all domestic fires. Never leave your (Christmas) dinner cooking unattended and make sure you switch off the oven and hob if you’re leaving the house.

Take care around alcohol and don’t cook if you’ve had a few too many; alcohol can cause you to take risks, be distracted, and sometimes even fall asleep.

This can be a very dangerous combination with cooking.

• White Goods

Dishwashers, tumble dryers and washing machines are all high powered appliances and can catch fire.

Reduce the risk of this causing serious damage to your home by never leaving them on when you go out, or when you’re asleep.

If the appliance starts to smoke, or a small fire breaks out, you have more chance of noticing if you are home and will be able to quickly call 999.

• Electricals

Christmas lights, and electrical presents such as games consoles are a fire risk.

The fire service say to check your Christmas lights are in good working order, make sure they are British Safety Standard and bought from reputable retailer.

Also, extension leads generate heat so should be used carefully.

‘Never make a chain of extension leads, and always fully extend wind-up extension leads’ the spokesperson said.

Always turn your (Christmas) lights off before bed or going out.

Laptops, games consoles, phones and tablets can heat up when in use or being charged.

Place on a hard surface and always use the official charger.