THE London Fire Brigade has warned about the dangers of Christmas candles and overloaded plug sockets.

The brigade has just released figures which show electrical problems, such as overtaxed sockets, and candles cause more house fires in London in December than in any other month.

Andy Hickmott, brigade assistant commissioner for community safety, said: "We want everyone to have a happy Christmas, but would like to remind people to be careful.

"It's tempting to plug several sets of fairylights and other electrical equipment into one socket, but I'd really advise against that. Sockets can quickly overheat and this can lead to serious fires."

Mr Hickmott also warned about the dangers of candles: "Candles look great, especially at this time of year, but they can be lethal if not used with care.

"Quite simply, candles left unattended can be a disaster waiting to happen, especially if you leave them near to flammable items, like curtains or even Christmas trees."

The brigade's new Christmas campaign was launched last week in Trafalgar Square.

Firefighters, along with actor Cliff Parisi, who plays Minty in EastEnders, revealed a giant, smoking, overloaded plug socket to members of the public to remind people of the dangers. They also handed out leaflets explaining how to use candles and sockets safely.

THE 12 RULES OF A SAFE CHRISTMAS - see page 2

**Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard and are in good working order.

**Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before you go to bed or go out.

**Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings and never leave them burning unattended.

**Make sure your family, and any visitors staying for the festive period, know what to do in an emergency. Tell them where you keep door and window keys so they can escape if a fire starts.

**Make a fire action plan so everyone in your home knows how to escape if there is a fire.

**Decorations can burn easily - don't attach them to lights or heaters.

**The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed, so take care it you are having a few festive drinks. **Many fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended.

**If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks make sure you follow the Firework Code. **Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished and never smoke in bed. Many fires start when people fall asleep while smoking.

**Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children.

**Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and check them regularly.