Tips for Practicing Fire Prevention
If you’ve watched the holiday classic “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you probably have a good idea of how holiday cheer can turn into chaos when flames get out of control. Unfortunately, the events that take place at the Griswolds’ home are not all that far-fetched. In fact, nearly 47,000 fires occur during the holiday season each year. Fire safety during the holidays is not only practical, it’s a simple way to protect your home and loved ones from potential catastrophe.
This time of year comes with its share of fire hazards. Read on to learn the most common culprits and essential safety tips to stay fire-free this winter!
Cooking Catastrophe
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires year-round, with Thanksgiving topping the list as the peak day for cooking-related incidents, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. With all the extra cooking and baking this season, a few safety precautions can go a long way (and might just save your turkey, too).
- When cooking or baking, never leave the kitchen unattended.
- Countertops can get cluttered during holiday preparation. Make sure to keep anything flammable away from the stovetop at all times.
- Set timers to prevent food from burning or catching fire.
Tree Turmoil
Although all Christmas trees need proper care, real trees present the greatest fire hazard, as a dry tree can ignite within seconds. Proper maintenance is critical to reducing this risk.
- Water live Christmas trees daily and keep their stands filled with water at all times.
- At the end of the season (or when the tree becomes dry), immediately discard it.
- Keep trees (both real and artificial) at least three feet away from sources of heat.
Candle Chaos
These popular ambience boosters are responsible for almost half of all home decoration fires in December. As tempting as it is to keep your home filled with
cinnamon- and pine-scented candles, consider these precautions to keep the mood safe as well as festive.
- If possible, use battery-operated candles to maintain ambience without the fire risk.
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.
- Ensure candles are in a stable spot where they won’t be easily knocked over, and always blow them out when you leave the room.
Electrical Emergency
Homes are filled with lights and electric décor galore at Christmas time, but as the number of decorations increases, so does the risk. Almost one-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems, so it’s important to use good judgement.
- Inspect holiday lights. Do not use anything that is old, frayed, or in bad condition.
- Always unplug all lights (and other electric decorations) before leaving the house or going to bed.
- Don’t let your pets chew on Christmas lights or cords.
Fireplace Fiasco
“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care” are words of wisdom to live by this season. A cozy fire may set the perfect holiday mood, but it can also pose serious risks if not handled carefully.
- Perform regular cleanings and schedule annual inspections to remove hazardous buildup.
- Use a fire screen to prevent embers and logs from escaping.
- Always ensure the flames and embers are fully extinguished before going to bed.
Did you know?
Having a functional smoke alarm reduces the chance of a fire fatality by almost 50%.
Meet the Author
Lindsey Clute, BA
Lindsey Clute is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications with a minor in international studies. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Lindsey worked in social media marketing, managing social media accounts and supporting various marketing initiatives. In addition, she worked as an editorial intern for a local media group. Today, Lindsey leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
Lindsey Clute, BA
Lindsey Clute is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications with a minor in international studies. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Lindsey worked in social media marketing, managing social media accounts and supporting various marketing initiatives. In addition, she worked as an editorial intern for a local media group. Today, Lindsey leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
