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Holiday Safety Tips

Christmas Trees

Each year, during the holidays, nearly 3,000 individuals are hurt due to fire and decorations. 

Make sure the times you spend with your loved ones this season are fully of health and happiness.    

  • Trees that are fresh are less likely to catch fire. Choose a tree that has vibrant green needles that are hard to pull off. The tree should have the least amount of shedding as possible. 

  • Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from a heat source. 

  • Your tree should not be blocking an exit.

  • Water should be added to your tree stand, daily. 

  • Dispose of the tree right after Christmas or when the needles begin falling off in large quantities. A dry tree is a major fire hazard. 

  • Artificial trees should always be made of fire-resistant materials. 

Holiday Lights

  • Only use lights that say they have been tested in a lab for safety. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. Make sure to use them in the correct places. 

  • Do not overload electrical sockets by plugging too many cords into an outlet. 

  • Always replace any string of lights that have worn out/broken cords or loose bulbs. If the wires become warm, unplug the lights immediately. 

  • Always unplug holiday lights when no one is home and when going to bed. 

Children/Pets

  • Always place all ornaments and candles away from the reach of small children and pets. These can easily be knocked down, causing burns, choking, or cuts. 

  • Beware of toxic decorations. Some plants such as: Holly, Mistletoe, and Poinsettias, can be poisonous if swallowed. Also, decorations like tinsel can cause serious problems for pets if ingested. 

Fireplace

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  • Never place a Christmas tree or other flammable decorations near a fireplace.

  • Never burn your tree or wrapping paper in the fireplace or wood burning stove. 

  • Always keep an operable fire extinguisher nearby.

  • Make sure your smoke detectors are in working order. 

  • Keep a list of emergency phone numbers such as the poison control center, police department, and fire department.

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