Don’t let Christmas ever heat up too much — with fire that is. Did you know that Christmas related fires result in 13 million dollars, annually, in property damage? More importatly, these fires present real risk towards family, friends, and pets. Christmas trees are beautiful and elegant touch es to the holiday spirit. BUT, they are the most popular fire starters in the holiday season. This isn’t to discourage anyone to partake in the holiday festivities. This is just to remind and inform people of the possibilities if safety precautions are not taken. So, let’s get started on these helpful tips during the holiday season:
- When you leave the home, unplug all Christmas lights. When you return plug them back in for you and others to enjoy.
- Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire, so look for a tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck and don’t break easily from its branches. A healthy tree always helps with fire protection.
- Always place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and keep the tree base filled with water to avoid a dry out.
- Make sure all your indoor and outdoor Christmas lights have been tested in a lab by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety, and throw out any damaged lights. Never use any electrical decor if it isn’t approved.
- Any lights you use outdoors must be labeled suitable for exterior placement, and be sure to plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
- Keep all your holiday candles away from your Christmas tree, surrounding furniture and décor.
- Bedtime means lights out!! Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
- If you leave for holiday vacation, make sure to turn your water off. The worst is when you return and a supply line or water source has been disconnected or busted.
- Make sure the fire place is not left burn or unattended. All it takes is one small coal or spark to have a fire.
- Be very careful while cooking and baking. Don’t leave the stove or oven unattended, make sure you can enjoy the meals with family and friends!!
We hope these tips have helped you have a safe and wonderful holiday season. Also, we want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from NWA Restore It, Inc..
