DORSET Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people to stay safe while staying warm and having fun this winter.

The service’s home safety manager, Phil Burridge, said: “Having fun over the festive season is great but it is easy to forget about the extra fire hazards decorations, candles, fires and extra people in your home can bring.

“We often find this is a busy time of year for our crews and we want to prevent fires in the home before they start.

“If you have an open fire your chimney should be regularly cleaned by professional, registered sweeps.

“Even if your chimney is lined it needs sweeping at the beginning and end of the season at a minimum.

“If you are using an electric blanket, please ensure that it has been rolled and not folded when stored.

“Finally, never place candles near your Christmas tree, other decorations or furnishings and do not leave them burning unattended.”

Other safety advice includes making sure not to cover or sit on electric heaters and keeping clothes and other flammable material at least three feet away from any heater or open fire.

Mr Burridge said that between November 1 and Christmas Day last year, the service dealt with 100 house fires and 96 road collisions.

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service is also reminding people it provides free home safety checks, including fitting or replacing smoke alarms.

Officers are issuing advice on the use of candles, unattended cooking, electric blankets, overloading sockets, chimneys, low energy light bulbs and more.

For more information visit www.dorsetfire.gov.uk or call 01305 252600.