Stay safe and look after yourselves while celebrating Hanukkah is
the message from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service
(GMFRS).
The celebrations, while a special time of the year, bring
increased risk of accidental fires due to the increased use of
candles and oils.
GMFRS are asking all observing Hanukkah to think carefully about
how candles are used:
- If using a menorah you should place it on a sturdy,
non-flammable surface such as marble, glass or metal
- Never place a candle holder near curtains or flammable
materials
- Avoid areas where the menorah could be easily knocked over
- Ensure smoke alarms are fitted wherever candles are used
- Only use suitable glass or metal containers to burn candles
or oil in
GMFRS offers free visits to people’s homes, called Safe and Well
visits, to assess fire risks, fit free smoke alarms as
appropriate and provide a range of safety advice, including fire
safety.
Ben Levy, GMFRS Area Manager, said: “Hanukkah is a special
occasion and I want everyone to be safe and happy as they
celebrate.
“Make sure you are sensible when lighting and placing candles or
oil around your home, especially if leaving them burning
overnight. It does not take much to accidentally start a fire so
please follow our safety advice.
“If you do come across a fire then don’t panic, don’t take risks
and don’t try and tackle it yourself. Remember pikuach nefesh,
get out, stay out and call us out on 999.”
Last year firefighters attended a number of house fires started
by unattended candles, including a significant one caused by a
menorah at Hanukkah, causing substantial damage and dampening the
festivities.
Ben added: “Luckily nobody was injured but the families involved
had to face the devastation of not being able to return to their
homes during what should be a special time of celebration with
loved ones.
“If you would like to lower your chances of an accidental fire
ruining your celebrations please call us on 0800 555 815 to
arrange a free Safe and Well visit.
“Please have a happy and safe Hanukkah. Chag Sameach.”
