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The holidays can be a fun break from the daily grind as we get busy decorating, cooking, shopping and festivities. But with the change of routine, there’s actually a spike in hazardous accidents. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports from late November through January, there is a spike in house fires caused by Christmas trees, candles, lights and holiday cooking.
There are some simple steps to assure your household’s safety during this special time of the year.
1) Keep your tree watered
Live Christmas trees can dry out pretty fast in the Colorado winter. So to keep it fresh, cut the tree’s base before putting it into a sturdy stand. Then water it daily so the needles remain moist.
2) Double-check your lights
It’s really important to only use outdoor lights when you decorate outside! Inspect them for fraying, damage and wear. If wires are showing through the insulation or sockets/connections are cracked or loose, do not use the lights. Also strands can overheat and fail if you plug more than three strands together.
3) Plan the home fire escapes
Every room should have two exits in case of a fire. Be sure your smoke detectors are all working too.
4) Have a carbon monoxide detector
In Colorado a CO detector is required in every home with a fuel burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage. The detector must be installed less than 15 feet from every bedroom/sleeping area entrance.
5) Clear 3 Feet around Flames
Be sure all materials are at least 3 feet away from your fire place (even Christmas stockings). And don’t leave candles unattended.
6) Toss, don’t burn wrapping paper
After gifts are unwrapped, be sure to recycle it. Burning it can clog the chimney or become a fire hazard.
7) Check extension cords
Use laboratory-approved extension cords, just like your lights. You actually shouldn’t staple, tape or run them under rugs. Don’t overload your electrical outlets.
8) Safely place the Christmas tree
Be sure your tree is away from fireplaces, vents and other heat sources and does not block pathways or room exits.
9) Decorate your tree safely
Tree ornaments can actually be a choking hazard, so watch using small ones. Be sure they don’t puncture the wiring of the tree lights.
10) Cook with caution
When you have multiple burners and the stove cooking at once, watch out for the hot surfaces and overflowing pots/pans. Of course never use a turkey deep fryer indoors.
For more online resources about holiday fire safety, check out the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Administration.
Check out our blog for more tips or contact us for advice:
Windermere Metro Denver Real Estate
Source: http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/news/baltimorecountynow/Ten_Tips_for_Avoiding_Holiday_Fire_Hazards
