With people plugging in Christmas decorations in this week, homeowners have been given a warning

As families begin putting up their festive decorations, many will rely on extension leads to power Christmas lights and ornaments that aren't near electrical sockets. But fire safety experts are warning these devices could spark a devastating blaze if simple mistakes are made.

People living in older properties may find themselves particularly reliant on extension leads due to having fewer wall sockets available. Now, firefighters have issued an urgent alert about the hazards that can be easily prevented.

A spokesperson for the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "Many portable electric items like lamps and radios are supplied with a relatively short length of c

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