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Fire safety advice

Practical guidance from Galway Fire and Rescue Service to help residents stay safe and prevent fires throughout the year.

Careless attention to fireplaces, heaters, smoking and cooking equipment are leading causes of fire-death and injury. Remember the three golden rules when considering Fire Safety in the Home

  • Plan and practice an escape drill with your family
  • Install smoke alarms to give you an early warning.
  • Survey your home to ensure that it is firesafe.

 

Complete our Home Fire Safety Checklist Online.
 

Fire Safety at Halloween

Halloween is one of the busiest times of year for emergency services. Galway Fire and Rescue Service urges everyone to act responsibly to avoid injury and fire hazards.

Bonfires

  • Bonfires are illegal and dangerous.
  • They may contain hazardous materials like tyres, gas cylinders, aerosol cans, oils, plastics, and household waste.
  • These materials can explode or produce toxic smoke.
  • Never approach or attempt to jump over a bonfire.
  • Avoid alcohol or intoxicants near bonfires.
  • If you can feel the heat, you are too close.

Fireworks

  • Illegal fireworks are unregulated and dangerous.
  • They can cause serious injuries and start fires.
  • Only attend events with licensed fireworks displays.
  • Sparklers burn at high temperatures:
    • Light one at a time.
    • Hold at arm’s length with gloves.
    • Place in water after use.

Costumes and Decorations

  • Ensure costumes have a CE safety mark.
  • Avoid flammable materials like plastic bags.
  • Keep costumes away from open flames.
  • Supervise children and avoid masks that restrict vision.
  • If clothing catches fire: STOP, DROP, and ROLL.
  • Use LED candles instead of real ones.
  • Never overload sockets with Halloween decorations.

Fire Safety at Christmas

Christmas Trees

  • Use a sturdy base with water for real trees.
  • Keep trees away from heat sources.
  • Dispose of trees properly—never burn them.

Christmas Lights

  • Use lights with a genuine CE mark.
  • Prefer LED lights for low heat.
  • Check for frayed wires and damaged plugs.
  • Don’t overload sockets.
  • Unplug lights before bed or leaving the house.

Outdoor Lights

  • Use lights rated for outdoor use.
  • Keep connections above ground and dry.
  • Never use indoor extension leads outside.

Candles

  • Keep away from children and pets.
  • Trim wick to 6mm before lighting.
  • Use stable, heat-resistant holders.
  • Keep away from drafts and flammable materials.
  • Never burn candles on or near Christmas trees.
  • Always extinguish candles before sleeping or leaving.

Other Tips

  • Don’t burn wrapping paper in the fireplace.
  • Keep cards and decorations away from flames.
  • Use a spark guard on open fires.
  • Extinguish cigarettes properly.
  • Check smoke alarms and never remove batteries for toys.
  • Clean ovens and stoves before Christmas.