The holiday season is for warmth, cheer, and getting together with loved ones. As houses twinkle with holiday lights, candles flicker, and heaters hum to keep us warm, each can also pose a fire hazard. Here are some essential recommendations to help you enjoy the December celebrations while keeping fire damage risks to a minimum.
Christmas Lights: Bright but Safe!
- Check Your Lights: Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires, cracked bulbs, and loose connections before hanging them up. Replace any damaged strands.
- Avoid Overloading Circuits: Plugging too many light strings into a single outlet can lead to overheating and increase fire risks. Follow manufacturer recommendations on limits for each strand.
- Use Safe Placement: When decorating, keep lights away from flammable materials, like curtains, and avoid placing them near water.
- Turn Off When Unattended: Lights should always be turned off before bed or when leaving home.
Candles: Keep the Ambiance but Eliminate the Risk
- Place Carefully: Set candles on stable surfaces, away from decorations, fabrics, and other items that can easily catch fire.
- Consider LED Alternatives: Battery-operated LED candles provide the same warm glow without the fire risk.
- Never Leave Unattended: Always extinguish candles before bed or leaving the room.
Space Heaters: Cozy Comfort with Caution
- Use in Open Spaces: Heaters should be placed at least three feet away from walls, furniture, and flammable materials. Avoid using them in closed or confined spaces.
- Watch for Tip-Over Protection: Newer models have automatic shutoff features if tipped. Ensure your model is equipped with this safety feature.
- Unplug When Not in Use: Always turn off and unplug heaters when you leave the room or when sleeping.
- No extension cords: Avoid using extension cords with space heaters, as they can overheat and cause fires quickly.
Safe Decorating Tips for a Fire-Free Holiday
- Avoid Overcrowded Outlets: Limit the number of electrical decorations to prevent overload and overheating.
- Secure Christmas Trees: If you're decorating with a real tree, water it daily. Dry trees are highly flammable, so keep them hydrated and away from heat sources.
- Check Smoke Detectors: A functional smoke detector is your first line of defense. Test them to ensure they're working correctly.
Taking extra precautions this holiday season can help keep the festive spirits high and fire damage risks low. Lightspeed Restoration supports your family with fire damage and disaster restoration services if the unexpected happens.
For more safety information or emergency assistance, call Lightspeed Restoration at (800) 620-4009 or visit us at Lightspeed Restoration.