Stay safe as New Year's Resolution

Make staying safe your New Year's resolution

Make it your new year's resolution to keep you and your loved ones safe. That's the message from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service for New Year's Eve and into 2015.

Your New Year's Eve celebrations could include fireworks, fairy lights, candles and decorations, all of which are fire hazards when proper care is not taken. Make sure you follow our safety advice, take extra care and have working smoke alarms.

The Service's Head of Prevention and Protection, Keith Brooks, said: "To ensure you have the happiest of New Years and a safe 2015, keep fire safety at the top of your list. Ensure you place candles in suitable holders and away from curtains, never leave cooking unattended and of course test your smoke alarms. And please, don't ever drink and drive."

If you're going out to celebrate, designate a driver for the night and remember, if you are driving, the weather conditions might be poor so make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter driving. Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow, make sure wipers and lights are in good working order, check tyre tread depth and pressure and always keep a full tank of fuel.

The same rules as bonfire night apply for people setting off fireworks to herald in the New Year.

The best advice is not to, but we don't want to spoil enjoyment so, if fireworks are being planned, make sure everyone is a safe distance away from where they're being set off, keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.

Keep them away from naked flames, do not set them off after drinking alcohol, dispose of them safely after use and make sure they're set off in safe surroundings.

Make 2015 the year you ensure your smoke alarms are up to date, in the right place and that you test them on the first of every month. It only takes a few seconds and really does save lives.

Keith continued: "At this time of year, many people will be thinking of what they can do – big or small – to make a fresh start and improve their lives, homes and wellbeing. A smoke alarm can offer vital protection for you and your loved ones, but most people simply fit and forget – they don't know if it might be coming to the end of its lifespan or not working at all.

"For most of us, there is nothing more important than keeping our loved ones safe and secure. So if your alarm is getting past its best or your top floor is missing an alarm of its own, make your New Year's resolution to fit new ones, test them on the first of every month and protect your loved ones in 2015. "

To keep your alarms in working order:

• Test your smoke alarm by pushing the button on the first of every month;
• Check the packaging for your smoke alarm to make sure it's still up to date;
• Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home;
• Fit smoke alarms on landings and hallways and in rooms which have an electrical appliance, eg a heater, or other risk
• Take a moment to check on your loved ones who may need help to ensure they're fully protected

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