Happy holidays! We know that there are still 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.
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. To preserve the safety of your holidays, here are some tips to prevent holiday decor fires.
Two (2) of the main causes that may contribute to the development of a violent fire during the holidays are using substandard decors and displaying trees near open flames. Here are important safety tips:
- 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 and 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.
- Check out this safety hangtag from the National Fire Protection Association for more ideas.
In case a fire breaks out, evacuate your home and call 911 or your local fire department. After firefighting efforts are over, contact ServiceMaster by Wright for professional fire damage restoration services in Southwest Florida.
Contact Us for Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration in Fort Myers, Florida
At ServiceMaster by Wright, we are pioneers in fire restoration services and we are the trusted source of both fire and smoke restoration solutions for homeowners and businesses in the Southwest Florida area. Contact us at (239) 431-9947 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
