The National Fire Protection Association safety tips for this holiday season are common sense for many of us, yet we insist on doing many of the things that are dangerous to the safety of our families.
According to The National Fire Protection Association, more than 1/3 of home decoration fires started by candles, and almost half of the home decoration fires started because decorations were placed too close to a heating source.
We enjoy the lights and decorations around the home to help us celebrate the holiday season so much so, that we neglect safety tips that can prevent fires and damages done to our homes.
Safety during the holiday season should be your most important concern, and it’s not very difficult to read safety labels and follow them accordingly. Keep your home safe by following these common-sense safety tips.
- Test ALL the smoke detectors in your home. Replace the batteries and replace the old smoke detectors that are not working properly
- Buy a small fire extinguisher. It can cost you less than $15 dollars and save you thousands.
- Keep the fire extinguisher close to the kitchen. Fires that begin in the kitchen are numerous during the holiday season and can get out of control in a matter of seconds
- If cooking extensively during the holidays, make sure children are protected from oil burns, or other stove-related injuries by talking to them ahead of time. Baking cookies should not be the beginning of a trip to the emergency room
- Place the Christmas tree away from the fireplace and any other heating sources
- Place candles away from flammables decorations, walls, curtains, or any item that can catch fire quickly.
- Indoor lights should not be placed outdoors and vice versa. Follow the safety instructions from the manufacturer.
- Test the Christmas lights before using them. If the cords are damaged or the lights are old and unreliable, buy a new set. They are very inexpensive all other expenses considered.
- DON’T leave any candles lighted or Christmas tree on if you leave the home.
- Books, magazines or newspapers should never be left close to candles or other heating sources
Remember the holiday season is a time of joy. Keep your loved ones safe during this time of year.
