This blog post shares the importance of considering fire safety this Christmas.
Christmas is a wonderful time of the year; don’t let the holiday heat up too much with fire. Christmas tree fires present a real risk to family and friends. When displaying a live tree in your home, the combination of electrical malfunction with poorly located heating sources and tree dryness can create a fatal combination. This blog post shares the importance of considering fire safety this Christmas.
Christmas Trees
Even though Christmas trees are not prevalent, they are much more likely to be deadly than most other fires when they occur. Consider these fire safety tips:
- Fresh trees are less prone to catching fire, so search for a tree with hard-to-pluck, vibrant green needles that don’t break easily from its branches.
- Place the tree at least three feet away from any flammable source, such as radiators, fireplaces, heat vents, or candles, and ensure it does not block an exit.
- Make sure to add water daily to the tree stand.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before heading to bed or leaving home.
- Avoid using lit candles to decorate the tree.
Candles
Candles are excellent for adding ambiance to any environment, especially during the holidays. Their scents make a home warm and inviting for many occasions. However, candles might result in a fire emergency if not managed carefully. Recognizing the dangers behind candle usage and how to use them correctly can help prevent a fire emergency. Remember to blow out all lit candles when you go to bed or leave the room!
Holiday Decorations
- Be cautious regarding holiday decorations and only select flame-retardant or resistant decorations.
- Check the packaging to check if some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
- Replace any string of lights with broken or worn cords or loose bulb connections.
- Use clips to hang lights so the cords don’t get damaged.
- Keep decorations away from doors and windows.
Holiday Cooking
Kitchen fires are the primary cause of U.S. home fires year-round. Consider fire safety this Christmas and look over these tips:
- Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking food.
- Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop such as towels, wooden utensils, or curtains.
- Heat the cooking oil slowly to your desired temperature for sauteing and frying.
- Add food gently to the pan or pot so the oil doesn’t splatter.
- Always cook with a lid next to your pan. If a fire occurs, slide the lid over the pan and shut off the burner.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, give us a call at 410-871-3480.