Happy holidays! We know that there are gatherings and reunions scheduled in the coming weeks. It’s a busy time for everyone, especially if you’re hosting a party. With all the preparations that need to be done, it’s easy to overlook items and situations that may actually be fire hazards.
Don’t worry; we’re here to help! Here are some important safety reminders to prevent fires from holiday decorations and keep your get-togethers fun and memorable.
ServiceMaster DSI of Southwest Florida is here to help with property restoration after fire damage in Fort Myers, FL, or nearby areas. Call us at (239) 431-9947 for a faster response, or request an estimate online.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that every year, fire departments in the United States respond to an average of 790 home structure fires caused by decorations, not including Christmas trees. Two (2) of the leading causes that may contribute to the development of a violent fire during the holidays are using substandard decors and displaying trees near open flames.
Other causes of holiday fires include:
- Unattended candles
- Unattended cooking
- Heating equipment such as space heaters
To protect the safety of your home and loved ones, keep these tips in mind!
- Use flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations.
- Buy lights that have been tested and approved by certified or well-known testing labs.
- Use decorative lights as recommended by the manufacturer. For example, you shouldn't use indoor lights outside.
- Check lights for loose bulbs and worn-out wires. Don't use damaged lighting products.
- Instead of lit candles, use battery-operated LED ones.
- Turn off any decorations that use electricity before you go to bed or leave the house.
- Keep sources of heat at least three (3) feet away from flammable objects.
- Keep matches and lighters out of reach of kids and pets.
- Use outdoor lights and keep them away from water sources when decorating outside.
- Decorations shouldn't obstruct passageways. Keep paths clear of obstacles.
- Fire extinguishers and fire alarms must be checked regularly.
- Set up a home fire campaign to help your family be more ready.
Tree Safety Tips from the American Red Cross
- Use artificial trees specified as fire-resistant by the manufacturer.
- Choose a healthy tree with new needles if you plan to use a live tree.
- Before you put your tree up, cut two inches off the base of the trunk to help it absorb water.
- Water the tree every day to keep it healthy, but don't overwater it to prevent mold growth.
- Remove any dead or dry needles.
- Keep trees away from doors, windows, and heat sources.
- Don't ever put lit candles on your tree.
- Before leaving the building or going to bed, turn off the tree lights.
What to Do If a Fire Breaks Out
Acting quickly and calmly is crucial if a fire breaks out in your home. Here’s what you should do:
- Immediately notify everyone in the house and evacuate.
- Once safely outside, call 911 and report the fire.
- If you must exit through smoke, stay low to the ground to avoid inhaling smoke.
- Close doors behind you to help contain the fire.
- Do not go back inside the house for any reason.
- Wait at a safe distance for the fire department to arrive and handle the situation.
Remember, safety is the priority. Property can be replaced, but lives cannot. After firefighting efforts are over, contact ServiceMaster DSI of Southwest Florida for professional fire and smoke damage restoration services in Fort Myers, FL, and nearby areas.
Request a FREE Estimate Today!
At ServiceMaster DSI of Southwest Florida, we are pioneers in fire restoration services and the trusted source of fire and smoke restoration solutions for homeowners and businesses in Southwest Florida. Contact us at (239) 431-9947 for a faster response, or connect with us online to schedule an appointment.