Fire Alarm Services From Fireco: Consult, Supply, Install and Maintain
From Christmas lights twinkling across the lounge to sizzling BBQs and cozy campfires under the stars, there’s no beating the festive season in Northland.
But, with more people, more cooking, and more decorations around, it’s easy for small hazards to turn into serious fire risks. At Fireco, we want Northlanders to enjoy every moment of the holidays without worry, which is why a few simple fire safety steps can make all the difference.
Christmas Lights and Electrical Safety
Christmas lights make the season bright, but they also increase the risk of electrical fires if they’re damaged or overloaded. Before decorating, check all your lights and accessories for frayed cords, cracked casings, or broken plugs. If anything looks worn or overheated, replace it rather than taking the risk.
It’s also important not to overload power boards or run too many high-use decorations from a single outlet. Keep lights and paper decorations away from candles or heaters, and always switch them off before going to bed or heading out. A few simple checks now can prevent a serious emergency later.
And while you’re thinking about Christmas décor, remember to keep live trees well-watered. A dry tree can go from festive to flammable faster than you realise!
Safer Summer BBQs
BBQs are a Kiwi summer staple, but they’re also a common source of holiday fires. Before firing yours up, give it a good clean to remove grease and fat that can trigger flare-ups. Keep a close eye on it when it’s in use, and never leave a BBQ unattended, even for a quick moment.
BBQs should only ever be used outdoors, well away from walls, awnings, or enclosed spaces. If you’re using gas, do a quick soapy water test on hoses and connections before lighting. And with summer gatherings often involving a drink or two, it’s best to avoid cooking if you’ve been drinking alcohol. Keeping an extinguisher or fire blanket nearby is also a smart, simple safety step.
Campfires and Outdoor Adventures
A summer escape to the beach or bush is unbeatable, but if you’re planning a campfire, it’s essential to do so safely. Always check fire regulations to see if there are restrictions or if a permit is required – these are available on the Fire Emergency NZ website and are up to date with current restrictions, which you can find here.
If you are allowed to light a fire, then choose a clear spot well away from dry grass or branches, and keep your fire small and controlled. When you’re done, extinguish the fire completely using water. Never bury embers under sand, as they can stay hot for hours and reignite later. Carrying basic fire safety gear, such as Fireco’s summer safety kit, is always a good idea for your vehicle or caravan.
Staying Safe in Holiday Homes and Baches
If you’re heading away to a Airbnb or family holiday home, take a moment to get familiar with your surroundings. Check that the property has working smoke alarms and make sure you know the quickest way out in case of an emergency. This is especially important if you’re staying somewhere new or unfamiliar.
Keep hallways and exits clear, particularly if you have a full house with extra guests or kids running around. It’s also a good idea to locate the fire extinguisher and fire blanket when you arrive so you know exactly where to find them.
Sleeping Areas, Caravans and Extra Guests
Many Kiwi families use sleepouts as extra sleeping spaces during the holidays. If this sounds like your setup, make sure every sleeping area has a long-life photoelectric smoke alarm installed. Did you know that you have no sense of smell when sleeping? That means you can’t smell smoke while asleep, so early detection with smoke alarms is crucial.
Check alarms before your guests arrive and encourage everyone to keep sleeping areas tidy and free from clutter that could block an exit. These simple steps help keep everyone safe while staying together under one roof – or several!
Celebrate the Season Safely
A few thoughtful checks and some simple preparation can make all the difference in preventing a fire emergency during the holidays. From making sure your Christmas lights are safe to planning escape routes and managing BBQs responsibly, each action helps create a safer festive season for you and your whānau.
For more detailed guidance, the Fire Emergency NZ website has excellent resources on escape plans and general fire safety.
Wishing you a joyful and safe festive season from the Fireco team.
