The holiday season can be a wonderful time, and it can be fun to decorate for the holidays. But it is also a time to think about how those decorations might increase the risk of a fire in your home and how you can reduce the risk.
Candles can be a primary source of fires over the holidays. According to the United States Fire Administration, almost half of home decoration fires in December are started by candles. Christmas day is the peak day for candle fires.
The best practice is to use battery-operated flameless candles. If you choose to use traditional candles, keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that burns and never leave them unattended.
Dry natural Christmas trees can be another source of a fire over the holidays. More than one in five Christmas tree fires is caused by a heat source too close to the tree. They can burn very hot and very fast. Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters, candles, cooking appliances, fireplaces or heat vents. If you choose to have a live tree, it is critically important to keep natural tree stands filled with water at all times.
Use non-flammable decorations. Only use lighting that is Underwriter Laboratories (UL) listed and read the manufacturer instructions for the number of light strands to connect. Inspect lights for frayed wires and defects before using, and avoid overloading electrical outlets. Do not leave lights on and unattended. Get rid of your tree after Christmas or discard it promptly if it becomes dry.
More information on holiday fire safety is available from the Key Largo Fire Rescue and EMS District at 305-451-2700.
