Deck Your Halls this Holiday Season – Safely
According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were 300 Christmas tree fires in U.S. homes in 1998, and nearly 50,000 home fires from 1994 to 1998 were caused by lit candles. Here are some tips on how to keep your holiday decorations safe this season:
LIGHTING
# Before hanging decorative lights each year, be sure to inspect them for frayed wires, loose connections, cracks, or wear and tear. Be sure to unplug lights before replacing bulbs or fuses. Do not overload outlets or mount lights in a way that can damage the cord (for example: using nails to hold wires in place).
# Don’t use indoor lights for outdoor decorating.
# Use caution with candles. Set them in stable holders where they are less likely to be accidentally knocked over, and never leave the house while candles are burning. Keep them away from decorations, wrapping paper, trees, young children and pets.
# Turn off all lighted decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Overnight, they could short and start a fire.
DECORATIONS
# Only use fireproof decorations; never use decorations made of cloth or paper.
# Never run an electric train under a tree. Sparks from the track might start a fire.
# Never put wrapping paper in a fireplace. Holiday paper is often a little glossy or polished. Burning it may create sparks and release toxic gases in your home which can potentially build up and can cause an explosion.
TREES
# If you have a metallic or artificial tree, be sure it’s flame retardant, should any sparks fly.
# Avoid setting up your holiday tree near a heat source like a fireplace or heating vent. The warm air will dry out the tree, making it more prone to catch fire.
ENTERTAINING
# Provide ashtrays for guests who smoke, and be sure to check for stray cigarette butts in upholstered furniture. According to the Insurance Information Institute, cigarettes are the leading cause of home fire fatalities.
