The holiday season should be full of warmth, sparkle, and celebration. The last thing you want to worry about is the safety of your family and your home. With extra cooking, festive lights, and candles being burned, it only takes one small accident to change the spirit of the season. So, today, we want to highlight twelve fire safety tips to ensure the safety of the people, and the things, you love most.
- Pick a Fresh Christmas Tree
If you decide to decorate a real tree, be sure to choose one with the following characteristics:
- Has a healthy green colour and smell
- Strong, upright branches
- The needles stay put and are pliable
A dry tree can ignite in seconds. Once you bring the tree home, water it daily to keep it hydrated and reduce fire risk.
- Keep Tree Away from Heat Sources
Place your tree at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators, or heating vents. Even LED lights can warm up over time, so give the tree space and steer clear of any potential dangers.
- Inspect Holiday Lights Before
Check for frayed wires, cracked bulbs, or loose connections. Damaged lights can lead to a fire that can start quickly. Therefore, if a string looks worn or questionable, replace it rather than repair it.
“Nearly one in four (24%) Christmas tree fires were started by lamps or bulbs.” –NFPA
- Use LED Lights
LED lights stay cooler, use less energy, and significantly reduce fire hazards. They also last longer, which is a win for safety and your wallet.
“ENERGY STAR® certified LEDs are up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs, and they last at least 15 times longer.” -Government of Canada
- Don’t Overload Outlets or Extension Cords
Plugging too many decorations into one outlet or extension cord can overload circuits and cause electrical fires. Be sure to always follow the manufacturer’s recommended light-string limits.
- Turn Off Lights Before Bed or Leaving Home
Use a timer or smart plug to ensure lights automatically shut off when you’re not around. If you aren’t home, it’s best practice to turn off your lights. At the end of the day, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Keep Candles Away from Anything Flammable
Candles should always be placed on sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces and kept away from curtains, garlands, and decorations. Never leave a burning candle unattended!
- Consider Flameless Candles
Battery-powered candles provide the same warm glow without the risk. They’re especially safer for households with kids or pets. Plus, if you forget to turn them off, you don’t have to worry.
- Practice Safe Cooking Habits
The kitchen is often the hub of the holidays! Keep a close eye on food, avoid wearing loose sleeves near the stove, and keep flammable items, like towels or oven mitts, away from burners.
- Clean Your Chimney Before Using the Fireplace
If you use a wood-burning fireplace, make sure the chimney is cleaned annually to prevent buildup that can lead to chimney fires. Always use a screen to catch sparks.
- Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible
Have a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen and near areas with holiday lights or decorations. Make sure everyone in the household knows how to use it.
- Test Smoke Alarms and Replace Batteries
Smoke alarms save lives, but only if they work. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries twice a year (when daylight savings starts and ends is a good way to remember).
The holidays should be a time of joy, not stress. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy a bright, beautiful, and safe festive season.