If your lights are showing signs of wear consider replacing them. All new lights should come with a pre-fitted plug and the correct fuse. The commonest cause for a visit to the casualty department at Christmas and during the rest of the year are falls, particularly on the stairs. Make sure there are no possible tripping hazards on the stairs such as loosely fitted carpet or discarded toys. It s essential, too, that stairways are well lit and light should be controllable from the top and bottom of the stairs.
Alcohol can also pose a problem.
Alcohol-related accidents are not just confined to the road. It s almost impossible to quantify how many home accidents are indirectly or directly caused by alcohol misuse. The fire service is well aware of the connection between alcohol and fires. It s natural for alcohol to flow at Christmas, but just remember that it s probably wise not to overindulge before the cooking is well out of the way. Alcohol affects co-ordination and reaction time which makes falls more likely so extra care and vigilance is needed, particularly for the elderly members of the family.