Friday, March 29, 2024

Holiday Safety Tips

It’s that time of year when families are busy decorating with holiday lights and trimming the Christmas tree!   The Southlake Fire Department would like to remind everyone to follow these simple guidelines to reduce the risk of fire danger in the home and ensure a safe and happy holiday season.

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS:

  • Check all tree lights, even if you have just purchased them.  Make sure all bulbs work and that there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections.
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.  The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights and a person touching the tree can be electrocuted.
  • Before using lights outdoors, check the labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.  Do not use nails or tacks to secure lights.
  • Plug all outdoor decorations into circuits with a ground fault circuit interrupter to avoid potential shock.
  • Turn off all lights when you go to bed.
  • Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree.
  • Remove all wrapping paper, bags, ribbons and bows from tree and fireplace areas after gifts are opened.
  • If you buy an artificial tree, make sure it is fire-retardant.
  • Keep your tree at least three feet from furnaces, radiators and fireplaces.
  • Try to position it near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place the tree where it may block exits.
  • Keep a close eye on small children when they are around the tree; many small decorations and ornaments are sharp, breakable and can be swallowed.
  • When Christmas is over or when the tree starts to drop needles, dispose of it. Don’t leave it in your house or put it in your garage.
  • After your family’s celebrations, remove the tree and dispose of it properly. Contact your garbage disposal service to learn the details of their holiday tree removal program.
  • Blow out all candles before going to sleep or leaving the room.
An image of a family bowling and dining

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