Be safe when celebrating this Christmas - is the seasonal message from Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller and his team.

Some simple precautions could prevent heartache and tragedy this Christmas - so follow this advice:

• Christmas Tree Lights - buy from a reputable store to ensure they comply to British safety standards. Do not use old ones if the flex or wiring is frayed. Do not overload plugs and make sure all are switched off at night.

• Decorations - do not allow them to hang too low and keep clear of fires and naked flames.

• Candles - lovely but dangerous, never leave unattended and never, ever put T-lights on top of the TV or other electrical units.

• Gift wrapping - piles of paper can be a hazard inside the house, or in the wheelie bin if they can be accessed easily by those who think setting fire to bins is a lark.

• Smoking - make sure you empty ashtrays carefully, watch out when using matches and lighters when children are around.

• Kitchen - the main starting place for fires all year around - be careful with grills and pans and with tea towels and packaging when preparing festive food.

And stuck for a Christmas present idea? Buy someone you love a smoke detector - it could save their life in 2008.

Firefighters and their families held their own special Christmas Carol Concert at Woburn Parish Church on 11 December when the Bishop of Bedford assisted with the service.

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller commended all his team for their hard work and lifesaving activities in 2007 and asked everyone to remember firefighters who had lost their lives elsewhere during the year.