Residents have been warned of the increased risk of house fires during the party season.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service this week launched its winter fire safety campaign to raise awareness of the dangers in homes.

The winter months continue to be the most dangerous for Hertfordshire residents. Last winter, the number of fires was almost 50 per cent higher during the Christmas and New Year period than at any other time of the year.

Figures show there were four accidental house fires in Hertsmere in December 2006 and January this year, but 12 during the same period in December 2005 and January 2006.

Fire investigations suggest the blazes are often connected to celebrations during Christmas, New Year, Hanukkah and Eid.

Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of accidental fires started by cooking and cigarettes, while other causes include candles, overloaded sockets and faulty electrical goods, such as Christmas lights.

Chief Fire Officer Roy Wilsher said: "More than two thirds of all accidental fire deaths since 2000 have occurred in winter.

"These statistics show just how vital it is to educate people about how to protect themselves from the very real threat of fire."

He added that it was important for homes to be fitted with smoke alarms in the run up to Christmas.

"There are still an estimated 100,000 Hertfordshire homes without working smoke alarms," he said. "This is something we want to change by offering people the opportunity to have a free home fire safety check where we fit smoke alarms for free."

To book a free check call 0800 587 3347.