Four Ways To Minimize The Risk Of Holiday Fires

During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy for renters and homeowners to overlook home safety. Neglecting necessary precautions increases injuries, accidents, and property damage during this time of year. The U.S. Fire Administration states that home fires that occur in the winter months account for only 8% of the total number of fires in the U.S., but alarmingly, they result in 30% of all fire deaths and twenty-three percent of all fire injuries. Over 2,600 people are killed in home fires annually. 

Data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shows that one-third of all home fires and 38% of home fire deaths occur in the coldest months of the year – December, January, and February. This is because there is a universal surge in heating, cooking, candle use, and holiday decorations. 

Fires can be deadly and are the costliest property disaster, especially if they result in total home loss. Instead of falling prey to a dangerous fire, take the time to identify and correct potential problems before a disaster can occur. 

Use these four tips to keep yourself, your family, and your property safe this holiday season.

Check Your Smoke Alarms

It is easy for your smoke alarms to go unnoticed throughout the year, but the holiday season can be a good reminder to test them and replace their batteries. You must test your alarms on every floor of your home, including the basement, as a fire can start anywhere.

Be Cautions When Using Candles

Candles create an inviting and festive living space during the holiday season. However, with so many guests in the home at once, excited children, pets, and more, candles can be an accident waiting to happen.

Never place an open flame near flammable items, such as curtains, clothes, or towels, or place them somewhere they could be forgotten. Ensure they sit on a sturdy base and are always extinguished before leaving home or going to sleep.

Pay Attention To Electrical Hazards

Although convenient, extension cords can be tricky if used irresponsibly. For example, using extra lights, appliances, and other devices can overload extension cords and wiring in your home.

Remember to avoid running electric cords or cables over walkways, out of windows, under rugs or furniture, or in wet areas when decorating your home. Be aware of frayed or cracked cords and dispose of them, as faulty ones can quickly spark, cause a fire, or shock someone.

Use Exterior Decorations Sparingly

While exterior decorations effectively put you and your neighbors in the holiday spirit, they can quickly cause damage if you overindulge. 

Thus, only install decorations outside your home that are certified for outdoor use. Keep them at least 10 feet from power lines and turn them off before leaving your home or going to sleep. For added safety, we suggest putting your light display on a timer, so you never have to worry if you left them on.

Why Do We Care?

We are owned and operated by off-duty professional firefighters serving the North Texas area. Therefore, we value the safety of your valuables and educate our clients on how to avoid fire hazards. If you learned one thing from this post, let it be to stay prepared for the unexpected. To learn more about our services and the areas we serve, contact us today!