CHRISTMAS is a time for families where relatives and friends gather from far and near to spend time together.

Sadly, it is also a time when some people are at the greatest risk in their own home from fire and the destruction it causes.

There are precautions that can be taken, by listening to the advice today from the Fire Service and avoiding the dangers like mixing alcohol and cooking.

Many people re-arrange their homes to accommodate guests and fire hazards may be created in the process as electric sockets are overloaded with chargers and lights.

The biggest danger in December and January, however, is alcohol and people falling asleep drunk, leaving a cigarette burning or a pan on the cooker.

The statistics on fire deaths are reducing, but there are still too many avoidable fire deaths in our communities.

Treat yourself to a Christmas present and get a working smoke alarm and a home safety visit from your local fire fighters by using the contact details on page 13. It might save your life.

By following the safety precautions and advice of the Fire Service we can all enjoy the company of friends and relatives at Christmas and make sure the next time they meet is not without you ... at your funeral.