We Are Headed For The Holidays!

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Now that Halloween has come and gone, we are in full speed ahead towards the holiday season! This means that family gatherings are at the top of everyone's list. It’s as important to keep safety top of mind with a small family gathering as it is with a large holiday gathering. We all enjoy bringing the glow of the holiday season to our homes with Christmas trees or other holiday decorations, but these statistics from the U.S. Fire Administration show how easy it is for home decorating to turn into a home disaster.

• The top three days for home fires are Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve.
• More than half of the home decoration fires in December are started by candles.
• A heat source too close to the Christmas tree causes one in every four winter fires.
• On average, one of every 52 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in death. In addition to exercising caution with candles and heat sources, it is important to follow manufacturers’ guidelines for holiday lighting.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires. Though Christmas tree fires may not be common, they can be devastating to more than the house itself. They can destroy irreplaceable photos, mementos, and family heirlooms and even cost lives.

To help keep your holidays bright and your home and family safe, use common sense with candles and tree placement, and follow these important home decorating guidelines:

• Only use decorations that are flame-retardant or not flammable.
• Check holiday lights each year for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Don’t link more than three strands of holiday lights.