CHRISTMAS TREES--Trees can be a significant fuel source for any fire. Choosing an artificial tree made of flame resistant material can substantially reduce the risk of fire. If you plan to use a live or cut tree, you should choose a fresh tree by checking the color and feel of the needles. Needles on fresh trees should be vibrant, green, and not fall off easily. When placing the tree, cut off about 1˝" of the trunk and place the tree in water. Check the water level and replenish every day. Do not place trees near heater vents or return ducts. Cut trees should not be kept indoors for extended periods of time.
CANDLES--The number of home fires caused by candles is at a 20-year high, with December as the peak month. It is best to avoid using candles, but for those who do, use extreme caution. Most candle-related fires involve unattended candles or children playing with candles. If you use candles, use a stable holder and place them where they cannot be knocked over, never place candles on a Christmas tree, and always extinguish candles before leaving home or going to bed. It is safer to enjoy candles using a warming plate.
DECORATIONS - Choose decorations that are flame resistant, or treat them with a flame retardant product. Trees may also be sprayed with flame retardant material. Avoid using pine boughs or straw indoors.
LIGHTING - Choose only lighting products that are listed by an approved testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturers written instructions for all lights. Do not string too many light sets together. Do not use any light sets with frayed cords, damaged light sockets or broken bulbs. Avoid using multi tap plug adapters and do not overload circuits. Extension cords that are overloaded may feel warm to the touch. Turn the lights off when you leave the house or go to bed.
KITCHEN SAFETY- Cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires. Do not leave stoves or ovens unattended while cooking. In most kitchen fire incidents, ignition occurred while the cook was out of the kitchen (NFPA- 2003). Every kitchen should be equipped with an operational fire extinguisher. Due to the danger of cooking fires frequently associated with the devices, the use of turkey fryers should be limited to outdoors and away from combustible decks or patio covers. Young aspiring chefs should be accompanied by a responsible teen or adult.
FIREPLACES AND STOVES - Chimneys for fire places and stoves should be cleaned and checked for damage prior to use each season. Firewood and ignition materials should not be stored indoors or near the fireplace. Wrapping paper and packaging materials should not be burned in the fireplace (consider recycling). Cleaning the fireplace or stove should only be done while the device is cold. All cold ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tight fitting lid. This container should be stored outside and away from any combustible material. Only ashes cold to the touch should be placed for pick-up by trash collectors.
