FIREFIGHTERS have issued a safety plan to ensure fire doesn't ruin Christmas for Spa families.

Officers based at Droitwich Fire Station, in Saltway, have produced the list.

Station officer Dave Pember-Finn said: "Every year we come into contact with someone who has Christmas ruined because of a fire which could have been avoided.

"By following our safety tips, we hope everyone will be happy and safe during the holidays."

Householders have been advised to buy Christmas decorations made of non-combustible material and to hang them away from lights and heaters.

Smokers must stub out cigarettes properly and families should be on guard for guests who may fall asleep while a cigarette is lit.

Homes with an open fireplace are advised to have the chimney cleaned and swept.

Other tips include:

* Don't overload electric adapters, and check the condition of flexes;

* Never take the batteries from smoke alarms to run toys or presents;

* Never leave candles unattended and don't put a lit candle near a Christmas tree;

* Test Christmas lights before putting them on the tree and always turn then off at night and when you go out;

* If you are cooking a turkey overnight, ensure you are familiar with the cooker timer controls and the temperature is set correctly;

* If setting light to a Christmas pudding, don't pour alcohol straight from the bottle, put a small amount in an egg cup first.