Winter is the most prevalent season for house fires, but knowing the facts and implementing safety tips will make your holiday more enjoyable and safer for your family.
In 2013, U.S. fire departments responded to over 1.2 million fires, which accounted for approximately $11.5 billion in property damage. The holidays are peak time for home fires due to electrical failures, dry trees, space heaters, fireplaces, candles, holiday lights, and cooking equipment. Visit the website at www.nfpa.org.
To help avoid holiday fires and protect your family, here are a few safety tips:
Trees: Water your holiday tree often; ensure there are no faulty lights, and keep the tree away from heat sources like fireplaces and space heaters. Consider having a ‘fire resistant’ artificial tree instead.
Holiday Lights: Check for melted or damaged wires/plugs on your holiday light strands and turn all lights off when going to bed and while away from home.
Cooking: Keep pot handles turned inwards. Don’t leave your cooking unattended. Avoid wearing loose clothing, which can ignite easily. Don’t store items on the stove.
Fireplace: Make sure stockings “Hung with care” are hung elsewhere while the fireplace is in use. Fireplace screens or glass doors are essential.
Candles: Keep candles away from children and extinguish them when going to bed and while away from home. Electrical candles are great alternatives.
Fire Escape Plan: Know your escape routes and practice with family members. Provide fire extinguishers for each floor of the home and test smoke detectors regularly.
Emergency Preparedness Kit: Keep contact numbers handy for first responders, doctors, and insurance carriers.