As I was traveling this weekend I saw many cars transporting Christmas trees home. This is supposed to be a joyous time of year, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration, fires during the holiday season claim the lives of over 400 people, injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage each year.I don’t want to be one of those statistics.
Here are some things we can do to avoid a holiday fire:
Before you buy a tree for your home, be sure to check and see if the tree was freshly cut. The needles should be green and the trunk should be sticky to the touch. If the needles are falling off the tree, it’s already dried out and is a fire hazard. When you get your tree home, keep it away from heat sources like fireplaces and heat vents, and keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.
Check your holiday lights for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and any other damage. Don’t link more than three light strands and don’t overload your electrical outlets.
The U.S. Fire Administration recommends you decorate only with nonflammable or flame-retardant decorations and, like the tree, keep them away from open flames and heat vents.
Fire safety professionals always recommend against candles. You can get electric candles now, and I hear that you can even get an electric Menorah. Whenever you use real candles, make sure they’re in stable holders and put them where they won’t be easily knocked down. It’s a good idea to stay close to your lit candles just in case there’s an accident.
Keep fire safety in mind, and have a safe and happy holiday season!
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