Christmas
Christmas is celebrated to honor the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe to be the Son of God. The word ‘Christmas’ originates from “Christ’s Mass,” referring to the Mass or service where Christians commemorate Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection.
As autumn yields to winter, snow blankets the earth, and twinkling lights adorn homes, the arrival of Christmas is unmistakable. Decorated Christmas trees stand proudly in homes and public spaces, while gifts gather beneath their branches, awaiting eager hands. Families come together to share a festive feast, often centered around a roasted turkey. Christmas is not only one of the most significant Christian holidays but also a cherished cultural celebration.
- But what does Christmas truly signify?
- Is it the joy of giving and receiving gifts?
- Is it the economic surge that accompanies the season?
The essence of Christmas, especially in the West, is a rich tapestry woven from pre-Christian, Christian, and secular traditions. Its name, rooted in the phrase “Christ’s Mass,” underscores its origins as a Christian holy day, blending faith, history, and celebration into a unique and meaningful season.
Christmas is a season of spiritual reflection, celebrating the core principles of the Christian faith. It is also a time of joy and festivity, where Christians commemorate God’s profound love for the world through the birth of Jesus Christ, the long-awaited Savior.
The Bible foretells His birth centuries in advance, fulfilling ancient prophecies, with the Christmas story beautifully detailed in Luke 2:4-19.
As the festive season approaches, North Wales Fire & Rescue Service wants everyone to enjoy a safe and joyful Christmas and New Year. We encourage you to take a moment to review our top tips for staying safe during this special time.
Christmas is a time for gatherings, as families and friends come together to celebrate. However, December sees a significant rise in the number of fires, injuries, and fatalities, with the monthly average more than doubling. The excitement and busyness of the season can lead to distractions, increasing the risk of accidents.
To ensure your festivities remain joyful and worry-free, please follow our safety advice and take extra care during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Smoke alarms
- Ensure you have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home. A working alarm can give you and your family the vital time needed to escape a fire.
- Ensure you test your smoke alarms weekly.
- NEVER remove the batteries from your smoke alarms.
Escape plan
- Make a fire escape plan and discuss it with your family. Ensure any visiting friends and family are aware of the escape plan too.
- Ensure you have a bedtime safety check routine. Check Christmas lights are off, cigarettes are out, candles are out and electrics are off (where possible) before you go to bed.
Electrics
- Don’t overload sockets. Ensure only one plug per socket.
- Always turn off plugs when they are not in use, except those that are designed to be left on, like freezers.
Enjoying a drink at Christmas
- The direct cause of 25% of all fires can be attributed to alcohol.
- In 33% of all fires alcohol consumption was a contributing factor.
- Don’t Drink and Drive – get those taxis booked for any nights out.
- Never cook after drinking – you can easily become distracted.
Candle safety
- Keep candles away from decorations, Christmas trees, cards, wrapping paper, fires, lights and heaters.
- Never leave burning candles unattended.
- Ensure candles are out of reach from pets and children.
Decorations
- Unplug Christmas lights when you’re going to bed or leaving the house.
- Check lights conform to a safety standard, e.g. British Standard 60598
- Always use an RCD (residual current device) on outdoor electrical equipment. This safety device can save lives by instantly switching off the power if there is a fault and can be found in any DIY store.
- Don’t overload sockets with too many lights.
- Don’t block exits with Christmas trees, presents etc.
Christmas safety tips
- Remember to buy batteries for toys that need them – that way you won’t be tempted to remove batteries from smoke alarms.
- Keep decorations and cards away from fires and other heat sources such as light fittings and don’t leave burning candles unattended.
- Give yourself enough time to prepare and cook Christmas dinner to avoid accidents that come from rushing, and wipe up any spills quickly.
- Beware of trailing cables and wires in the rush to connect new gadgets and appliances, and always read the instructions.
- Falls are the most common accidents so try to keep clutter to a minimum and make sure stairs are well-lit and free from obstacles.