Cable chaos and candlelight: Pay attention to fire safety during the pre-Christmas season! The district administration provides monthly information on the topic of emergency preparedness. This time it's about Smoke Detector Day on Friday, November 13, 2026, and safety during the Advent season.

Oberberg District. The pre-Christmas season is slowly approaching. With Advent wreaths, fondue, and electric lighting, not only does the festive spirit increase, but unfortunately, so does the risk of fire in your own home. Birgit Hähn (Head of Public Order of the Oberberg District) says: "A fire usually starts without warning. That's why it's important to take precautions to be able to act quickly in emergencies." Just in time for Smoke Detector Day on Friday, November 13, 2026, the Oberberg District is raising awareness about risks and precautionary measures.

Especially during the pre-Christmas season, some basic safety measures should be observed. The combination of candles and dry pine branches, as well as damaged electrical decorations, can quickly become dangerous. District Fire Chief Julian Seeger emphasizes: "Even small inattentions can cause a fire. Therefore, it is important to never leave open flames unattended and to check electrical decorations for possible damage before use."

Tips - not just for the Advent season:

Inspect string lights and other electrical items for damage before use.
Only use items with valid test marks (GS and VDE test marks).
Never leave candles burning unattended and use stable, non-flammable bases.
Maintain sufficient distance between open flames and objects of any kind.
Do not overload power sockets. Never plug multiple power strips into each other.

Elektrische Kerzen sind eine Alternative - nicht nur für die Adventszeit. (Foto: OBK) — Electric candles are an alternative - not just for the Advent season. (Photo: OBK)

Ein beleuchteter Kranz aus grünen Zweigen mit gelben Lichterketten und silberner Dekoration liegt auf einem Teppich. Daneben befinden sich Kabel und eine Steckdosenleiste. — With cable chaos, the risk of fire increases. Therefore: Never connect multiple power strips in sequence and discard damaged devices. (Photo: OBK)

Smoke detectors can save lives

In addition to careful handling of candles and electric decorations, the installation and maintenance of smoke detectors are also particularly important. Most fire victims die from smoke inhalation. Smoke detectors provide early warning – around the clock. In North Rhine-Westphalia, private households are required to equip all bedrooms, children's rooms, and hallways serving as escape routes with smoke detectors. "As a supplement, it is advisable to purchase CO detectors. They warn of the toxic, colorless, and odorless gas carbon monoxide," recommends District Fire Chief Julian Seeger.

Checklist for checking your smoke detectors:

As a general rule: Smoke detectors should be installed in all rooms except the kitchen and bathroom, as steam can cause false alarms there.
Always mount smoke detectors horizontally at the highest point of the ceiling.
Ensure the devices are certified according to VDS and DIN EN 14604, and if possible, have the Q-Label (higher quality).
Regularly check your devices for functionality and replace them if you discover any defects or irregularities.

Eine Hand berührt einen weißen Rauchmelder, der an einer weißen Decke montiert ist. — Properly installed and maintained smoke detectors alert to smoke gases around the clock with a shrill alarm sound. (Photo: OBK)

Reacting Correctly in Case of Fire

If a fire breaks out despite all precautions, try to stay calm. "Please don't overestimate yourself!" says district fire chief Julian Seeger and advises: "If your own attempt to extinguish the fire is not sufficient, please immediately call the fire department using the emergency number 112."

Further recommendations:

Escape Plan: Create an escape plan with your family in advance and go through it together regularly. Ensure that escape routes are kept clear at all times.
Fire Extinguisher: Ensure easy access to fire extinguishers in advance for small fires.
Smoke: Do not attempt to escape through heavily smoke-filled areas. Close the door to the fire area and call the fire department.
Burning Oil: Never extinguish burning cooking oil or fat with water (risk of explosion!). Instead, use a fire blanket or a lid.
In case of fire, the general rule is: Safety first! Do not attempt dangerous rescue actions, quickly get yourself to safety, and call 112.

For inquiries, media representatives should contact

Jessica Schoeler

Internal Department Coordination | Social Media Management

02261 88-1215

02261 88-972-1215

jessica.schoeler@obk.de

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