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    Winter Holiday Fire Safety

    Winter Holiday Fire Safety

    iStock_000050150596_Small (1)

    The holiday season is a busy and exciting time. There are holiday parties to throw, gifts to buy, tinsel to gather, and homes to decorate. And while decorating creates a festive spirit there can also be hidden dangers. Winter is the peak season for home fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between the years of 2007-2011, Christmas tree fires contributed to 27 deaths and/or injuries and caused over 18 million dollars in damage. Holiday lights were to blame for 150 fires, contributed to 25 deaths and/or injuries, and cost around 8.4 million dollars in damage.

    Here are some tips from the Department of Fire Services to keep your holidays safe.

    Light Safety

    • Unplug all lights when going to bed or leaving
    • Check all lights for damage (frayed wires, broken plugs, etc)
    • Don’t overload an outlet
    • Don’t use candles on trees or other flammable decorations
    • Don’t leave burning candles unattended
    • Keep candles and matches out reach of children
    • Always buy appropriate weatherproof lights

    Tree Safety

    • Don’t use real candles as decorations
    • Keep trees away from heat
    • Water a cut tree daily
    • Use a non-tip style tree stand
    • Use decorations that are fire retardant
    • Don’t leave a lit tree unattended
    • Dispose of your tree, before the needles begin to dry out
    • Never hang lights on a metallic tree