Christmas is a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe Christmas season.
Cooking
- Cooking is the leading cause of all home fires. And, Dec 25th is the second leading days for cooking fires.
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
- Keep a lid nearby when cooking to smother small grease fires. For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
- Create a “child-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are present.
Candles
- Christmas it the peak day for candle fires.
- Keep lit candles away from decorations, and other things that can burn. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Never leave a child or pet alone in a room with a burning candle.
Christmas Trees and Decorations
- Water a real Christmas tree daily and always turn off tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
- When your real Christmas tree has dried out, remove it from the home immediately.
Smoke Alarms
- Test your smoke alarms and replace batteries where needed.