By Micha Wolf | Contributing Writer
‘Tis the season to be jolly: decorating your home at this time of year is a long-standing tradition in our neighborhood. Unfortunately, these decorations also increase the chance of a home fire. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), almost one third of home fires during the holiday season are caused by electrical problems. Although Christmas tree fires are not common; when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.
Most families have at least one Christmas tree decorating their home during the month of December. Read below for some useful tips for a safe holiday.
Safety Guidelines for Christmas Trees
- When picking a tree, choose a tree with fresh green needles that do not fall to the ground when touched.
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut at least two inches from the base of the trunk.
- Place your tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles and heat vents. Also, make sure that your tree does not block exits.
- Water your Christmas tree every day. A dry Christmas tree can burn very hot and very fast.
- Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry.
Safety Guidelines for Lights and Candles
In many homes, trees are just one part of the decoration. Many families string electric lights on the outside of their home and light stairwells or furniture with lights. Candles are used for Christmas, Hanukkah, and other winter festivities.
- Before you put up holiday lights, inspect them thoroughly. Throw away any strands with frayed or pinched wires.
- Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns. Make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be knocked down easily.
- Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and feel like real candles.
Source: USFA.FEMA.gov
Micha Wolf ha s retired from teaching primary school, loves being in nature and believes in building community through engagement.