The holidays are a time for families and friends to gather together, but it’s also a time of increased risk of fire. It may surprise you to learn that over 33% of decoration fires are started by candles and nearly 33% of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
The Mentor Fire Department offers a few simple tips to ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.
- Choose holiday decorations that are flame resistant or retardant.
- Keep lit candles away from decorations and other potentially flammable items. Keep children and pets away from lit candles. Extinguish candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. Replace any string lights with worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands you can connect. Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so cords don’t get damaged. Turn off all string lights and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source – fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights. Add water to the tree stand daily. Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it’s dry. Dried-out trees should not be left in the home or garage.
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Keep pot handles turned to the side or the back so children cannot pull them down.
We hope you have a festive and safe holiday season.