Holiday Fire Safety For Homeowners 

As the winter holidays approach, it’s essential to be mindful of potential hazards that can affect home safety, including fire risks during the holidays. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Christmas Day and Christmas Eve are among the leading days of the year for home fires. According to their research, the leading causes of holiday fires are heating, cooking, and electrical distribution equipment. Additionally, the Insurance Information Institute highlights that December is the No. 1 month for fires caused by candles. Holiday fire safety might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about this time of year, but it is certainly important for every homeowner.

These statistics underscore the importance of taking proactive measures to safeguard your home during the festive season. The holidays should be a time to relax and spend time with loved ones, but it’s also a season when homes are at an increased risk of fire and other hazards. From dangerous decorations to wild winter weather, it’s crucial to prioritize home safety to ensure that the season remains joyful and worry-free. By being aware of these risks and taking the necessary precautions, homeowners can protect their properties and loved ones from potential harm. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips on holiday fire safety to keep your home and family safe during the holidays

Christmas Tree Safety 

• Choose a fresh tree with needles that are hard to pull from the branches and don’t break when bent between your fingers. 
• Keep your tree well-watered to prevent it from becoming a fire hazard. 
• Place your tree at least three feet away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters. 
• Use only UL-approved lights on your tree and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. 
• Turn off all indoor and outdoor Christmas lights and electrical decorations before going to bed or leaving. 

Candle Safety 

• Use battery-operated candles instead of real ones to reduce the risk of fires. 
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn and place them in stable holders where they cannot be knocked down easily. 
• Never leave burning candles unattended and extinguish them when leaving the room or going to bed. 

Cooking Safety 

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking and turn off the burner if you need to leave the room. 
• Keep flammable items away from the stove and oven, such as grocery bags and kitchen towels. 
• If deep frying a turkey, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep the fryer away from structures and trees. 

Decoration Safety 

• Choose holiday decorations that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant. 
• Check all holiday light cords for fraying or damage and replace any damaged strands. 
• Hang ceiling decorations away from sprinklers and fire alarms. 
• Don’t overload electrical outlets with too many decorations or devices, as they could overheat and cause a fire. 

Fireplace Safety 

• Keep flammable items, such as wrapping paper, rugs, and clothing, at least three feet away from the fireplace. 
• Use a fire screen to prevent embers and logs from escaping. 
• Ensure all embers are fully extinguished before going to bed. 

Firework Safety 

• If setting off fireworks at home, choose a location away from buildings and trees. 
• Keep spectators, including children and pets, at a safe distance. 
• Have a supply of water or a fire extinguisher nearby. 
• Discard used fireworks in a bucket of water, or similar to ensure they are fully extinguished.

By being aware of these risks and taking the necessary precautions, homeowners can protect their properties and loved ones from potential harm. Remember, the goal is not to create fear but to empower you with knowledge and strategies to enjoy a safe and secure holiday season. If you have any questions or need assistance with your insurance coverage, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you protect what matters most. 

Want more holiday safety tips? Learn more about preventing crime during the holidays in our previous blog post, here!

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