FAIRY Lights and Christmas decorations can be a lethal combination, Wiltshire Fire Brigade has warned.

People are being urged to be extra careful with the use of candles and lights around flammable decorations this Christmas. The warning follows a serious fire at a shop in Lowestoft, Suffolk, which was caused when fairy lights set fire to some cotton wool which was being used as fake snow.

People are advised to follow these guidelines:

Ensure Christmas lights meet British Standard.

Never leave a burning candle unattended.

Keep candles away from decorations, curtains and furniture and always out of draughts.

Use a proper candle holder and place it on a flat, heat resistant surface.

For further fire safety advice call Wiltshire Fire Brigade on 01722 439300.