People celebrating Diwali have been offered advice on how to stay safe during the festival of lights

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued guidelines aimed at preventing accidents during the festival on November 1.

Diwali sees an increase in the use of divas or oil lamps, as well as fireworks.

It is believed light signifies goodness - therefore, various lamps are burnt throughout the day and into the night to ward off darkness and evil.

Prevention delivery manager at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, Vikki Thomas, said: "We want everyone to have an enjoyable Diwali and stay safe at the same time.

"Sadly, we have had fires in the past caused by Diwali candles and daisy-chained extension cables that have caused real devastation.

"By following our advice, you can keep your family and home as safe as possible from the risks posed by fire."

The fire service's advice includes making sure all candles and divas are in a safe, secure holder and that all tea lights are placed on a heat-resistant surface.

They should also be kept away from soft furnishings such as curtains, and out of the reach of young children.

Special care should be taken with homemade decorated candles and divas to ensure the flame does not come into contact with anything which could catch light.

Long hair and clothing, including saris, chunris, chunis, and dupattas, are also very flammable, the fire service warned.

The service said candles should not be left unattended at any time, and care should be taken when going to bed or while attending prayers.

'Daisy-chaining' extension leads or adapters - plugging one extension into another in order to reach further or to plug more appliances in - is also a big fire risk.

People have been told it is important to ensure all fireworks meet British safety standards.

They should be stored in a metal box, and a bucket of water should be kept nearby when using them.

Cooking should not be left unattended during the festival, and if a fire does break out, everyone should leave the house and call 999.

Anyone who does not have a smoke alarm is encouraged to use the festival as an opportunity to get one, as they are "inexpensive and easy to install", and offer an early warning of a fire.