“Stay safe ahead of Hanukkah” warns fire service

HAVE a safe and happy Hanukkah is the message from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS).

Ahead of the Jewish festival which begins later this week (Thursday 10 December) the Service is encouraging members of the community across the city-region to celebrate safely this year.

Area Manager, Ben Levy said: “Hanukkah is a very special occasion for the Jewish community, and everyone at the fire service wants to help families celebrate safely.”

“Unfortunately, our firefighters attend a number of house fires started by unattended candles each year and I would urge everyone to take the time to familiarise themselves with our simple fire safety advice before getting the celebrations underway.

“If you do come across a fire then don’t panic, take risks or try to tackle the fire yourself. Remember ‘pikuach nefesh’ - get out, stay out and call 999.”

The call comes as a reminder after a number of house fires occurred over the last few years involving candles used during Hanukkah celebrations, including two particularly serious incidents in 2017. Only last week the Service responded to a house fire in Stalybridge that was started by a candle.

Thankfully no one was harmed last week or in the 2017 fires, but these fires caused substantial damage to properties.

If you are celebrating Hanukkah this year, there are a few simple steps that you can take to keep you and your family safe:

• Ensure candles and oils are placed firmly in the menorah on a flat, heat resistant surface
• Keep the menorah away from flammable material including curtains and furniture
• Ensure there is at least three feet between the menorah and any surface above it
• Never move the menorah when lit and don’t leave it unattended
• Keep the menorah out of reach of children
• Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home
• Only use suitable glass or metal containers to burn candles or oil in
• To help stop the spread of Coronavirus, only celebrate with your household or bubble

From everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have a happy and safe Hanukkah.

Chag Sameach!

09/12/2020 09:27 AM