Christmas Safety Tips from the Arlington Fire Department
By Office of Communication
Posted on December 13, 2016, December 13, 2016

Christmas Safety Tips

 

It is fun to decorate for the winter holidays, but holiday decorations can increase your risk for a home fire. As you deck the halls this season, be fire smart.

Nearly half of holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source. The Arlington Fire Department has listed some important tips from the U.S. Fire Administration and National Fire Protection Association.

Holiday Lights

  • Inspect holiday lights each year before you put them up. Throw away light strands with frayed or pinched wires.
  • Read the manufacturer's instructions for the number of light strands to connect.

Christmas Trees

  • 1 of every 3 home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
  • Water your Christmas tree every day. A dry tree is dangerous because it can catch on fire easily.
  • Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, 1 of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires.
  • A heat source too close to the tree causes 1 in every 4 of Christmas tree fires. Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from heat sources.
  • Make sure your tree does not block exit pathways.

Candles

  • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Christmas Eve.
  • One-third of all candle fires start in the bedroom.
  • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
  • Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and feel like real candles.
  • If you do use lit candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be knocked down easily.

The Arlington Fire Department hopes you have a safe and merry holiday season. Follow ArlingtonTX Fire on Facebook and Twitter for more fire and life safety messages.

Holidays
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