Family relives fairy light blaze

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The parents of a child who suffered 40% burns when a Christmas tree caught fire have warned others of the dangers.

Philip Jenkin and Mandy Smith escaped through different doors when a fairy light exploded setting the tree alight.

Each thought Stephanie, then three, was with the other, but she was in the same room as the fire in Durrington.

West Sussex Fire Service said Christmas changed homes "dramatically" and warned people to be aware of risks. Stephanie, now seven, has had nine operations.

The fire service wants people to make sure they have planned an escape route in the event of a fire in their home.

It said people were 50% more likely to be injured in a house fire during the festive season.

CHRISTMAS FIRE SAFETY ADVICE DO: Have an escape planCheck smoke alarms weeklyCheck maximum amps that plug fuses can handleReplace bulbs if they blowPut candles in proper holdersKeep cards and paper away from flames and heatersEnsure cigarettes are put outTake care after drinking alcoholDON'T: Let bulbs touch anything that can burn easilyBe distracted when cookingLeave candles unattendedLeave fairy lights switched on when you go out or to bed

Stephanie, of Hildon Park, Durrington, suffered burns to her face, neck, arms and back, and was injured so badly that a priest was called to administer the last rites.

Mr Jenkins, a dustman with Worthing Borough Council, said: "Mandy shouted that the tree was on fire.

"I came downstairs and Mandy threw a quilt on the tree, but this only made things worse.

"I went to the kitchen to get a bucket of water, but by then the fire had taken hold.

"Mandy escaped out the front door and I escaped through the back.

"We didn't realise Stephanie was still in the house."

Roger Wood, from West Sussex Fire Service, said: "While people are relaxing with friends and family, everyday fire risks increase.

"People are more likely to be distracted and more vulnerable.

"Tree lights, paper, candles, enjoying a glass of wine with a cigarette - they can all greatly increase the chances of accidental fires."