With the “festival of lights” approaching on 1st November, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) is urging residents celebrating Diwali to take extra safety measures to keep their homes and families safe. Diwali, a festival celebrated widely in the UK, is known for its beautiful oil lamps (divas), candles, and fireworks – all of which add to its charm but bring fire risks that DWFRS wishes to help the community manage safely.
The festival of Diwali involves lighting divas to symbolise the triumph of good over evil. Yet, it’s vital to follow safety guidelines when handling open flames, especially around children, soft furnishings, and highly flammable clothing. Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has outlined some practical tips to reduce fire risks during the celebrations.
Key advice from DWFRS includes:
- Candles and Divas: Ensure all candles and divas are securely placed in stable holders and kept on heat-resistant surfaces. Take care to keep them away from curtains, furniture, and out of reach of children. Homemade decorated divas, which may have highly flammable embellishments, should be placed cautiously, avoiding any risk of the flame catching.
- Fireworks Safety: DWFRS advises that only fireworks meeting British safety standards should be used. These should be kept in metal containers and handled according to instructions, never revisiting one once lit. A bucket of water nearby is also recommended.
- Electrical Safety: Avoid “daisy-chaining” extension cords, as this practice greatly increases the risk of electrical fires.
- Cooking Precautions: Diwali often involves special dishes, but with busy kitchens, DWFRS reminds celebrants never to leave stoves unattended.
- Smoke Alarms: For households yet to install smoke alarms, DWFRS suggests Diwali as a perfect occasion to invest in this critical safety measure, which provides an early warning to exit safely if a fire occurs.
DWFRS’s Prevention Delivery Manager, Vikki Thomas, shared her thoughts: “We want everyone to enjoy Diwali without worry. Sadly, in past years, we’ve seen fires sparked by unattended Diwali candles and daisy-chained extension leads, which can be avoided. By following our simple guidelines, you can make Diwali a joyful and safe occasion for all.”
For those seeking further advice on staying safe this Diwali, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has a dedicated page with more information at www.dwfire.org.uk/diwali.
