As the holiday season approaches, the potential for
accidents, injuries and other mishaps increases. Being safety conscious with
your preparations and celebration will help to make your holidays a time of joy
and allow you to enjoy the holidays with your family and friends.
When selecting
a live Christmas tree, choose a fresh tree and put it in a stand designed not
to tip over. Check the water level in the tree stand regularly. Dry trees pose
a serious fire hazard. Place the tree well away from heat sources such as space
heaters, heat ducts and fireplaces and do not block exits with the tree. If you
purchase an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.
When
decorating with lights, use only those that are labeled with the mark of a
nationally recognized testing laboratory like UL. Replace any frayed or damaged
cords. For outside decorations, use only lights that are labeled for outdoor
use. Bring outdoor lights inside following the holidays so they are not damaged
by extended exposure to weather conditions. Always unplug all lights before
leaving home or going to sleep and don't overload electrical outlets. Use only
battery-operated lights on metal Christmas trees or decorate without lighting.
Use care when
burning candles. Candles should never be left unattended. Be sure candles are
placed in sturdy, non-combustible holders and are kept well away from
decorations and other combustible materials. Check candles frequently to make
sure they don't burn down too far or drip hot wax. Don't leave children
unattended in a room with lit candles. Don't display lighted candles in windows
or near exits in case you need these to escape a fire. Under no circumstances
is it safe to use candles to decorate Christmas trees! Keep flashlights and
fresh batteries on hand to use for lighting in the event of a power outage.
If there are
smokers around your home, provide plenty of large, deep ashtrays and check them
frequently. Check to be sure all smoking materials are extinguished before
emptying the ashtrays. After a party, always check inside and under upholstery
and cushions and inside trash cans for cigarette or cigar butts that may be
smoldering. To protect children in your home, keep matches and lighters up
high, out of their sight and reach (preferably in a locked cabinet). Ask
visitors who are smokers to keep their smoking materials with them when they
are visiting in your home.
Use caution
with holiday decorations and whenever possible choose those made with
flame-retardant or non-combustible materials. When cooking for holiday
visitors, remember to keep an eye on the range. Unattended cooking is a leading
cause of home fires in the
When you
prepare your holiday meals, always remember to keep hot foods hot and cold
foods cold. Keep food, utensils and preparation surfaces clean.
Never drink
and drive or allow guests to leave while intoxicated. Serving nonalcoholic
beverages is the safest way to eliminate this situation. If you plan to travel
over the holidays, plan your trip so there will be time for scheduled rest
stops. Pack emergency equipment such as a first-aid kit, flashlights, flares,
and cold weather equipment if you may encounter snow and ice during your trip.
Wishing you all a Happy
Safety/Environmental
Services