The number of fires and fire-related injuries and fatalities often increase during the holiday season.
In the days leading up to Christmas, the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council has some tips to keep your home fire safe this holiday season.
TIP #1 HOLIDAY LIGHTS
You don’t need to be Clark Griswold to shine bright with lights this holiday!
Consider using LED lights and hang with nail-free clips for your outdoor-rated lights.
Cut your loss and toss damaged strings – an electrical fire is a sure bet for a lousy holiday.
TIP #2 CANDLES & DECORATIONS
Is that candle too close to the decoration sitting on your table?
Fires caused by holiday decorations and open flames from candles are all too common this season.
Battery-powered candles are a great alternative but if you must light up, keep candles away from pets and children, put the candle in a sturdy container and always blow out when you leave the room.
TIP #3 SMOKE ALARMS
‘Tis the season – literally!
Fatal fires are at their highest rate during the holidays.
When seconds matter, a working smoke alarm is the gift of time in the event of a fire.
An alarm on every storey, tested monthly, and batteries replaced annually, is probably the best gift you can give your family this season.
