Jan Doherty

Make Holiday Safety a Tradition

Jan Doherty, Public Education Officer, No Phone Number Available

Thursday, December 4, 2014 at 4:13 p.m.

Make Holiday Safety a Tradition

During the holiday season, homes and neighborhoods become embodiments of holiday cheer and seasonal festivities. Ornaments hang from branches and lights adorn rooftops.

Although these decorations are beautiful, they can also pose a danger to the safety of your family and home. Before getting started with your decorations, read these potentially life-saving holiday safety tips.

Christmas tree fires result in a higher death rate compared to average home structure fires, with 1 out of every 18 home Christmas tree fires resulting in a fatality. When setting up a Christmas tree this year, keep your home and family safe by:

  • Ensuring artificial trees are certified as fire retardant
  • Choosing a fresh tree that is free of falling needles
  • Adding water to live trees daily
  • Not blocking an exit when placing the tree
  • Placing the tree at least three feet away from any heat source

An estimated 12,500 people are injured as a result of holiday decorating each year. Follow these tips and stay safe while installing indoor and outdoor lights and decorations:

  • Discard light sets with cracked sockets or loose connections
  • Turn lights off whenever leaving the home or going to bed
  • Never use more than three standard size light sets per extension cord
  • Check tags on light strings to ensure they were tested by Underwriter Laboratories or Edison Testing Labs

The Spokane Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

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