AS Christmas day is fast approaching, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service has released some tips to help keep your family safe over the festive period.

The fire service has released a video as part of the Fire Kills campaign that shows it only takes 46 seconds for a Christmas tree to go up in flames

Vikki Thomas, safe and well manager for the rescue service, said: “We continue to see too many fires both locally and nationally during the Christmas period. With so many things to think about during the holidays, it’s all too easy to overlook fire safety but it should be at the top of the list.”

Here is some valuable advice from the fire service:

n Check your Christmas lights are in good working order and conform to the British Safety Standard. Never overload electrical sockets, and make sure outdoor lights are fitted with a residual current device - always switch off the lights before going to bed or leaving home.

n Never place candles near your Christmas tree, decorations or furnishings – and never leave a burning candle unattended. Decorations can burn easily – so don’t hang them near lights or heaters.

n Never leave your Christmas cooking unattended and make sure you switch off the oven and hob when the meal is done.

n Many fires start when people fall asleep while smoking, so make sure you extinguish cigarettes properly – and never smoke in bed.

n Never remove the batteries from your smoke alarm to power a new Christmas toy.

For more information on maintaining fire safety in your home over Christmas visit www.dwfire.org.uk/christmas-safety or to see if you are eligible for a free Safe and Well visit - call 0800 038 2323.