Christmas Safety
Mirth and merriment abound as we approach the holiday season.
These festivities will include gatherings for celebration and
this often involves many people, food, drink, fancy clothing, candles,
lighted decorations and a warm crackling fire in the fireplace.
There will be many wide-eyed children bubbling with excitement
as they anticipate the wondrous events and surprises that await them.
Just the thought of it brings heart-warming feelings and
pleasant memories of past holiday seasons.
Although this is a time of much joy and celebration, there is
also an inconspicuous element of danger that may be overlooked when
planning or preparing for these festivities.
A fire can engulf a house or building in a matter of minutes…but
most fires can be prevented. Make
your holiday season remembered for its joyfulness, not for its
tragedy.
Buy a fresh Christmas tree. If the needles are already falling off, the tree is too dry
and should not be selected. Leave
your tree outside until it is time to decorate it and be sure that the
tree is securely fastened in a sturdy holder with water.
It is always a good idea to trim at least one inch of wood from
the bottom of the tree to improve the tree’s ability to absorb
water. Water the tree
regularly while indoors and do not place the tree near a wood stove or
heater. Be careful not to block doorways or exit paths and use low
wattage “twinkle type” lights, as these generate less heat with
prolonged use. Be certain
that all light strings are in good condition and operating properly.
Never use candles or any open flame device on Christmas trees
and do not overload your electrical circuits by plugging too many
cords into a single outlet. Christmas
lights should always be turned off when no one is home or when turning
in for the night. Spraying
the Christmas tree with a flame retardant is always a good idea.
Safely dispose of your tree before it becomes dangerously dry
and never burn your tree in your fireplace.
Decorate with flame retardant or
noncombustible materials, do not leave candles burning unattended or
within the reach of children and insure that candles are located well
away from combustible materials.
Discard gift-wrap and boxes with the garbage or recycle.
Do not burn them in the fireplace or wood stove.
Clean your oven and stove prior to the holidays.
Often the extra load on these appliances causes a fire due to
the high use and extra grease buildup.
If you entertain guests in your home who smoke, provide large
ashtrays and after your gathering be certain to check upholstered
furniture for cigarettes, as these are still the leading cause of fire
fatalities in the home. Finally,
be sure to test your smoke detectors and be certain that you have a
charged fire extinguisher and that everyone in your home knows where
it is.
If you have any questions or concerns about holiday fire safety or any
other fire safety matters, contact your local fire department or fire
prevention bureau. From
my family to your family…best, warm regards and wishes for a happy,
safe holiday season. |
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