Did you know that more than one-third of home decoration fires are caused by candles? Did you also know that 2 out of 5 fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source? Fire safety is always important but especially around the holidays. It’s easier during this time of year to forget how quickly a fire can start when small details are overlooked. To help you stay safe during this holiday season, we’re offering a few simple points to help you avoid common holiday fire hazards.
Holiday Lighting
- Inspect lighting for worn insulation or loose light bulbs
- Turn the lights off before leaving the house or going to bed
- Don’t overload electrical sockets
- Use clips to fasten lights instead of nails to prevent damage to the wires.
- Make sure the lights have been lab tested and UL certified.
- Use the appropriate outdoor extension cords for exterior lights.
- Only use a maximum of 3 light strands together according to Electrical Safety Foundation.
Christmas Trees
- Select a tree that isn’t dry with its needles browning or falling off.
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches off the base of the tree for optimal watering.
- Make sure the tree is three feet away from all heat sources like a radiators, heating ducts or fireplaces
- Add water to the tree every morning and every night.
- Throw away the tree once it begins to drop needles, this indicates that it is dried out and is a real fire hazard
- Never use lit candles to decorate a tree.
Holiday Cooking
- Keep kitchen towels and clothing away from the stove
- Keep your children and pets away from the cooking area
- Use a cooking timer that is loud enough to hear anywhere in the house
- Don’t use loose clothing when cooking.
- Keep a small fire extinguisher close to the kitchen
- Clean the kitchen areas to avoid grease build up
Finally, check your smoke alarms to make sure they are in working order! A safe holiday makes a great holiday and practicing holiday fire safety can ensure that. Follow Associated Fire Protection on our Facebook or Linkedin page for more helpful fire safety tips and resources.
