As the temperatures drop and we make our homes warmer, it is important for Hoosiers to remain cautious in preventing fire hazards that may occur when celebrating the holiday season with festive decorations.
To prevent disaster, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security provides the following safety tips to not only protect your home, but family as well.
Tree Management
- Artificial trees should be flame retardant and checked by a testing organization such as Underwriters Laboratories.
- Green pine needles on real trees should not fall off when touched.
- Water real trees daily to prevent them from drying out and catching fire.
- Keep trees at least three feet away from any heat sources.
- Trees should have a sturdy stand to prevent them from falling over.
Lighting Safety
- Lights always need to be turned off before going to bed or leaving home.
- Buy lights that were reviewed by a testing organization such as Underwriters Laboratories.
- Replace strings of lights that have worn, broken cords and broken bulbs.
- Securely fasten outdoor lights to trees, exterior wall siding and fences.
Decorations
- Place candles on a flat surface to prevent tipping.
- Extinguish candles before going to bed or leaving the home.
- Candles should never be used to decorate a tree as it could catch on fire.
Practicing caution by following the safety tips above can significantly reduce the chance of warm, merry celebrations turning into a disaster. For more information on how to keep your home and family safe during the holiday season, click here.
