Fire Service shares advice to celebrate Diwali safely

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is giving advice for Essex residents to have a happy and safe Diwali.

The celebrations, known as the “festival of the lights” often involve fireworks, candles, earthenware oil lamps (Divas) and cooking special meals for family and friends. 

The Service usually sees a rise in fires involving cooking and candles during winter and encourages residents to take simple precautions to protect their families and homes.

Will Newman, Head of Protection at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “Diwali is time to celebrate with family and friends and we want everyone to celebrate safely.

“If you’re going to be cooking, make sure to keep an eye on it at all times and if you need to leave the room, take pans off of the heat.

“Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing – this can easily catch fire and be sure to keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob.”

When using candles as part of celebrations, the Service is urging residents to use them safely. Each year, candles are the cause of more than 300 injuries across the UK, most of which can be easily avoided.

Will  adds: “Our best advice would be to use LED candles, they’re much safer. If you do want to use traditional candles, put candles in secure holders, keep them well away from any decorations or materials that can catch like curtains.

“Never leave candles in an area where they can be easily knocked over or where you’d be likely to lean over them at any point.

“And never leave candles burning unattended. If you need to leave the room, blow your candles out first - it’s just not worth taking the risk.”

The Service recommends people attend organised fireworks events to reduce the risk of fire but if you are going to use fireworks as part of your celebrations at home, please follow the Firework Code.

For more home fire safety advice, visit: essex-fire.gov.uk/staysafe