Cosy vs Practical: Staying Safe This December

December is that lovely time of year where the house feels warmer, the lights feel cosier, the food never stops… and nobody is quite sure what day it is anymore.

Candles come out, fairy lights go up, the heating works a bit harder and homes are generally busier than usual. It’s all part of the festive build-up. But, it does mean our homes are doing more than normal behind the scenes.

The good news? Staying safe doesn’t mean sucking the fun out of December. A few simple habits can help you enjoy the cosy feeling without worry.

More cosy usually means more electrics

December homes often have more going on than usual:

• Extra lighting

• Decorations plugged in

• Heating on more frequently

• Appliances getting heavier use

When lots of things are running at once, small issues are more likely to show up. That’s why December is often when tripping electrics or overheating sockets make their first appearance.

Candles, fairy lights & festive “atmosphere”

A cosy home is great, it just needs a bit of breathing room.

A few easy tips:

• Keep candles well away from curtains, shelves and decorations

• Avoid draping fairy lights over anything that could trap heat

• Try not to overload sockets with multiple high-use items

It’s not about being overly cautious, just being aware of what’s running and where.

Kitchen appliances & hidden heat

The kitchen works overtime in December, and some appliances generate more heat than people realise.

A simple but important habit:

• Pull appliances slightly away from walls, cupboards and splashbacks while in use

• This is especially helpful for things like air fryers, which need space for heat to escape properly

• Avoid running high-power appliances on extension leads

• Let appliances cool fully before pushing them back into place

Small changes like this can significantly reduce the risk of overheating.

Extra heaters & staying warm

Portable heaters can be handy in colder rooms, but they’re best used thoughtfully.

A few pointers:

• Keep heaters clear of furniture, curtains and clothes

• Don’t leave them running unattended

• If you’re relying on them constantly, it may be a sign your main heating isn’t working as efficiently as it could

Often, improving existing heating is safer (and cosier) than adding more.

Outdoor lights & exterior electrics

Outdoor Christmas lights add a lovely touch, but just remember they’re exposed to the elements.

Before switching them on:

• Check they’re suitable for outdoor use

• Make sure cables aren’t damaged or trapped

• Use timers or RCD protection where possible

• After heavy rain or storms, give everything a quick check

  
  

Little signs not to ignore

No panic… just awareness.

If you notice:

• Flickering lights

• Warm sockets or switches

• Tripping electrics

• Burning smells or buzzing sounds

It’s worth pausing and getting advice. Small issues are always easier to deal with early.

Cosy and calm is the aim

December should feel relaxed, not stressful. With a few sensible habits, you can enjoy the lights, candles and festive chaos, without worrying about what’s happening behind the scenes.

And if something doesn’t feel right, you don’t have to guess. We’re always happy to offer advice or take a look, even if it’s just a quick chat.

Here’s to a warm, cosy and worry-free December 🎄