THE craze for lighting up the outside of homes at Christmas has snowballed, but overloading electrical sockets could have devastating consequences, Oxfordshire's firefighters have warned.

The county's fire and rescue service made the plea at a time when festive revellers are 50 per cent more likely to die in a blaze because of the increased potential danger, according to the latest Government figures.

Last year, Oxfordshire firefighters received 344 calls in December - 11 a day on average.

Pete Cleary, the fire service's risk reduction manager, said: "What we're concerned about is overloading sockets at this time of year, which links in with outside lights.

"We have seen an increase in electrical fires in Oxfordshire over the past five years, which could be down to faulty electrics, wiring and over- loading.

"Also, there are more candles in the house and if a Christmas tree catches fire, it will burn rapidly as they are very dry.

"People cover them with artificial snow and streamers which are very flammable.

"Our message from the fire service is to have a happy, safe Christmas - we don't want to be your guest."

Tips to keep safe in the home over the festive season include: don't attach decorations to lights or heaters; switch off electrical appliances and Christmas lights when not in use; never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings and do not leave them burning unattended.

Marcus Reay, the fire and rescue service's community safety co-ordinator, said: "It's very difficult not to be saddened when we arrive at a fire only to see presents scattered over the floor and the home devastated.

"This is supposed to be a joyful time of year and we want residents to take extra care so they can have a special time."

Safety check list

  • Check your tree lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD (residual current device) on outdoor electrical equipment
  • Make sure you know what to do in an emergency
  • Celebrate safely. Drinking alcohol increases the risks of accidents
  • Most fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended
  • If you are planning to use fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby
  • Never leave cigarettes burning
  • Check the battery in your smoke alarm and remove dust
  • Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children
  • Check on elderly relatives and neighbours
  • If you don't have a smoke alarm in your home, you can get one from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service free of charge. Call 08000 325999 or email community.safety@oxfordshire.gov.uk for details.