DIWALI is this Saturday and while Hindu, Jain and Sikh families prepare for the festivities they were issued a warning from the fire service.

Diwali is a religious celebration involving decorating homes with oil lamps, candles, lights and setting off fireworks, but can also be behind an increase in accidental house fires.

“It is ironic and tragic that during periods of celebration there is a dramatic increase in the number of fires amongst many communities,” said Phil Hales, Head of Community Safety for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“It’s not only Diwali, we also see an increase at Christmas – it’s often that safety comes second to celebration.”

He asked people to take simple precautions to ensure their safety, including using proper holders for candles, keeping clothing and fabric away from flames and making sure children and pets stay away from candles.

He also reminded people to make sure they blow candles out before they leave home.