Fire Prevention 24-7 – Keep your holidays from going up in flames!

For most of us, the holiday season represents a time for family festivities and good cheer. What few of us consider is that the holiday season is a time when there is an increased risk of home fires. Many households engage in holiday activities that serve as some of the leading causes of U.S. home fires, including cooking. Christmas trees, candle usage and holiday decorations also significantly contribute to the seasonal causes of home fires. Add to that the hectic nature of the holidays, when people are trying to accomplish multiple tasks at one time, and the chance for home fires grows even further.

As everyone gets busier during the holidays, we often become rushed, distracted or tired. That’s when home fires are more likely to occur.

Fortunately, with a little added awareness and some minor adjustments to holiday cooking and decorating, the season can remain festive and safe for everybody. By taking some preventative steps and following simple rules of thumb, most home fires can be prevented.

Kitchen

• Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food.
• Keep anything flammable away from the stovetop.
• Turn off the stove when you leave the kitchen.
• Set a timer to remind yourself that you are cooking.
• Create a ‘kid-free’ zone of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food is being prepared.

Candles

• December is the peak month for home candle fires.
• Don’t keep candles too close to flammable items.
• Consider using flameless candles.
• Keep traditional candles at least 12” away from flammables.
• Blow them out when you leave the room or go to bed.

Trees

• A fresh tree’s needles don’t fall off when touched. Cut 1-2” from the base of the trunk. Add water and water daily.
• Keep 3 feet away from any heat source.
• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing lab.
• Connect no more than 3 strings of lights.

The holidays can quickly turn from joyful to tragic when a fire occurs. By taking simple precautions, people can avoid potential fire hazards, and make this time of year a healthy and happy one.