Safety first!

Two years ago the BEN told the heartbreaking story of a Bolton father-of-six who was electrocuted while putting up the family's Christmas tree lights.

At the time his distraught teenage son - who saw his father electrocuted - said: "We have lost a great dad. He loved Christmas and would do anything for his kids."

Senior trading standards officer for Bolton's Trading Standards Authority, Stephen Eddy says, while there are no guarantees that accidents will not happen, a few safety checks on lights and other appliances are crucial.

"It's recommended that people change their tree lights every five years," he says.

"We're all guilty of hording things and I'm sure we've all pulled out the same fairy lights year after year.

"But it makes sense to invest in a new set - and it's safer."

Stephen also stresses the importance of recognisable safety marks on appliances.

"Look for the stamp, BS EN 60598-2-20 and the BS Kitemark," he says, "and lights must be CE marked with a plug already fitted."

He says it's also important to buy electrical appliances - such as fairy lights - from a reputable retailer and people should avoid buying second-hand items - no matter how much of a bargain they think they're getting.

"But if you do want to buy second-hand, make sure you have the appliances checked out by a qualified electrician before using them."

He urged: "As with all electrical appliances, read and follow the manufacturers instructions and treat them all, including fairy lights, with care."

Hospital

Stephen added: "Anyone who comes across any Christmas tree lights they think may not come up to standard should bring them to the attention of the Trading Standards."

During October 1995 to March 1996, 300 children aged 15 and under were treated in hospital as a result of injuries caused by Christmas tree lights, candles or candlewax, according to the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT).

CAPT's director, Carol Sherriff says: "If you use candles, make sure they are fixed to a secure base, away from curtains and other inflammable material.

"And keep them out of children's reach. Never use real candles on a Christmas tree - they may look pretty, but they could start a fire.

"And turn off and unplug fairy lights before going out or going to bed."

But Christmas can be a dangerous time all around the home, according to CAPT.

Seasonal celebrations can lead to a potentially dangerous cocktail of excited children, changes to normal routines and unfamiliar items around the home.

"Christmas decorations, wrapping paper, new toys, candles and party-giving are all ingredients that can turn a happy Christmas into a nightmare," says Carol Sherriff.

And CAPT have the figures to prove it. Between October 1995 and March 1996 over 17,000 children were treated in an Accident and Emergency department as a result of an injury involving toys.

Of these, 58 children choked on toys or game parts.

And with Christmas, so comes the alcohol and, according to CAPT, many children fall victim to alcoholic poisoning over the festive period.

Poisonous

Their figures show that, between October '95 and March '96, almost 1,300 children were poisoned by drinking alcohol. Fourteen per cent of those were nine years old and under.

Carol Sherriff warns: "Don't give even the smallest mouthful of alcohol to children - it can be poisonous to them.

"Clear away unwanted glasses of alcohol promptly."

She also says adults should make sure hot items of food and drink are kept out of reach and that cigarettes are extinguished properly when finished.

She adds: "It's important to watch what children are eating - peanuts can choke a child under six years old and they can be tempted by all the party food on offer.

"With common sense and following some simple advice, the Christmas festivities should not be spoilt by accidents, especially involving children, in the home."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.