Keep the holidays merry and bright with these tips to help ensure your family stays safe throughout the holiday season.
Decorate Safely
Holiday decorating is a favorite tradition for many families. Christmas trees, lights, candles, and other holiday decorations can be a fire risk and emergency rooms see thousands of injuries involving holiday decorating each year.
- Place your live tree in water as soon as possible and replenish the water regularly.
- Make sure artificial trees and lights are labeled as flame retardant.
- Turn off all lights and decorations when you leave the house or go to bed.
- Take down your live Christmas tree shortly after the holidays otherwise you prolong your risk of a fire as the tree dries out.
Keep an Eye on Candles and Fireplaces
The U.S. Fire Administration reports that 56% of candle fires happen because something flammable is left too close to a burning candle.
- Keep candles a foot away from anything that could catch on fire.
- Place candles where they cannot be knocked over and out of reach of children.
- Use battery-powered candles in windows.
- Check and clean the chimney and fireplace at least once a year.
- Use a screen on the fireplace at all times when a fire is burning.
Winterize Your Car
Taking a road trip over the holidays? Get your car ready for winter travel. This is a good idea even if you are not going far from home during the holidays.
- Do a thorough check-up of your car from wipers to fluids to tires.
- Get out the ice scraper and snow brush.
- Have an emergency kit in the car with a flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, flares, snacks, and water.
It’s a magical time of the year and we wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!