As the temperature falls and the holiday decorations go up, many of us prepare for celebrations with family and friends. Tiny lights glimmer on Christmas trees, garland and wreaths adorn fireplaces, cinnamon candles freshen the air, and ovens produce mouthwatering meals. However, this holiday spirit also brings an increased risk for home fires.
“Consumers can enjoy a safe holiday season by being attentive to possible fire hazards, such as unattended food on the stove or burning candles,” says Doug Nickerson, General Casualty’s claim program manager.
Cooking fires
Cooking, according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), is the leading cause of house fires and fire-related injuries. In a NFPA study, six out of seven home cooking fires were caused because the cook left the kitchen. With a heightened emphasis on cooking and more distractions at the holidays, home cooks should be aware of the possible dangers and preventative measures they can take.
To keep fires out of your kitchen this holiday season:
- Don’t leave food unattended.
- Don’t wear loose clothing.
- Keep children and pets away from the stove.
- Keep everything off your stovetop other than pots and pans.
Candle fires
Similarly, candle fires peak during the holidays. In December, candle fires are twice as likely as any other month, according to the NFPA, with decorations being the most common item to ignite the fires.
“Candles are an open flame and can easily ignite a nearby strand of garland or wrapping paper,” Nickerson says. “Careful placement of candles and limited burning time can prevent most candle-related fires.”
To prevent candle-related fires:
- Don’t leave candles unattended.
- Keep candles away from anything that could catch fire, especially unsecured decorations that could fall on top of the flame.
- Keep candles in a secure location, so they won’t be knocked over.
- Follow the directions for adequate burning time.
Other helpful tips
To help consumers make their homes safe for the holidays, Nickerson suggests some additional household tips:
- When using your fireplace for the first time, make sure old ashes have been removed, the chimney is clean, and the damper is working properly.
- Don’t throw wrapping paper in your fireplace.
- Make sure lights aren’t missing bulbs and don’t have exposed wires.
- Turn holiday lights off when you go to bed or leave your house.
- Don’t overload extension cords or outlets.
- Water fresh trees regularly.
- Only purchase artificial trees that are fire-resistant.
- Keep your tree away from any heat source.
For more information please contact Anne M. Smith.