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The Year of the Snake: fire safety tips for Chinese New Year

Fire Safety

25 January 2025

Chinese New Year is a time of joy, family reunions, and vibrant traditions.

As millions around the world welcome the Lunar New Year with colourful fireworks, lanterns, and celebrations, safety remains a top priority. Fireworks and open flames are integral to many Chinese New Year festivities, symbolising good luck and driving away evil spirits, but they can also pose significant risks if not handled responsibly.

Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your Chinese New Year is filled with happiness and free from accidents.

The Tradition of Fireworks and Fire Safety Concerns

Fireworks have long been a hallmark of Chinese New Year. Their loud bangs and dazzling displays are believed to ward off bad luck and usher in prosperity. However, the beauty of fireworks comes with potential hazards. According to global fire safety reports, thousands of fire-related accidents occur each year during festival seasons, often due to improper handling of fireworks or unattended flames.

To ensure your celebrations are as safe as they are joyous, we’ve compiled a guide filled with practical fire safety tips tailored for Chinese New Year traditions.

Fire Safety Tips for Chinese New Year

1. Fireworks

Fireworks are dazzling but dangerous. Always leave the handling and lighting of fireworks to responsible adults. Keep children and pets at a safe distance, and never mix alcohol with firework handling.

When buying fireworks, ensure they carry a recognised safety certification, such as CE marking in Europe or equivalent standards in your region. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place, away from open flames and out of reach of children.

  • Use a long-handled lighter or taper to ignite fireworks at arm’s length.
  • Once lit, move back quickly and maintain a safe distance.
  • If a firework doesn’t go off, never attempt to relight it. Dispose of it safely after allowing sufficient time.

Chinese firecrackers are often used during the New Year, but they should never be lit indoors or in enclosed spaces. Use them in open areas to prevent fire hazards.

2. Lantern safety

Releasing sky lanterns is a popular tradition, symbolizing hopes and wishes for the year ahead. To do so safely:

  • Choose biodegradable lanterns with a flame-retardant base.
  • Release them in an open area, away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
  • Avoid releasing lanterns in windy conditions.

3. Candle safety

Candles play a role in many Chinese New Year rituals, from offerings at altars to decorative lighting. Follow these guidelines:

  • Place candles on stable, non-flammable surfaces.
  • Keep them away from curtains, paper decorations, and other flammable materials.
  • Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

4. Test smoke alarms

Before the celebrations begin, test all smoke alarms in your home to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries if needed and consider upgrading to smart smoke detectors for added safety.

5. Educate the family

Teach children about the importance of fire safety, including staying away from fireworks, handling sparklers safely, and recognizing potential hazards.

Stay safe with FireAngel

For more tips and advice on fire safety during festive seasons, visit our dedicated fire safety page. Let’s make this Chinese New Year not only joyful but also worry-free. Wishing you a prosperous and safe New Year!

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