Advent fire hazard
Advent stands for candlelight and contemplation. To avoid fires during this time, good preparation and vigilance are required. The Fire Prevention Advisory Service BfB, BFU and Suva provide tips in this regard. LED fairy lights and LED candles are becoming established as a safe alternative to candles.
Candles carry in the Advent season contribute to a contemplative mood. But they are also associated with an increased fire risk: In the worst case, a gently flickering candle can turn into a major fire within a short time and destroy an apartment. LED light chains and LED candles are therefore becoming increasingly popular as alternatives and are highly recommended.
Candles are the main danger
Unattended candles are among the main causes of home fires all year round. Those who nevertheless do not want to do without candles made of wax always look back before leaving a room to see if the Candles extinguished. Candles can also be knocked over by pets and ignite easily combustible objects. If there is a real fire, the fire department must be alerted first. After that, people are brought to safety. Only then can an attempt be made to extinguish the fire. It is important never to put yourself in danger.
LED also prevails on the tree
In its 2019 population survey, the AAIB asked several questions about the Christmas season in order to be able to analyze the risk of accidents. Findings: 58 % of the Swiss resident population had a Christmas tree at home last year. Of them, every fourth person used Christmas tree candles from wax - so these are now used in only 15 % of households.
The BfB, BFU and Suva provide the following tips for a fire-free Advent and Christmas season:
- LED candles and LED fairy lights are safer than wax candles.
- Place Christmas tree in water to keep it moist longer.
- Keep a fire blanket handy for emergencies.
- Extinguish candles if they are not supervised.
- Place candles in a stable position, on a non-combustible base with sufficient distance to textiles, decorations and other combustible materials.
- Ensure a stable, upright hold of candles on Advent wreaths and Christmas trees.
- Replace candles before they have burned down completely - no later than two finger widths above the Advent wreath or Christmas tree.
- Do not light candles on scrawny Advent arrangements or Christmas trees.
- Never burn dry Advent arrangements in the fireplace, but dispose of them.
Further information
