Fire Safety During the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, which means Operation: Deck the Halls is a go! As you’re hanging and placing your decorations carefully and thoughtfully throughout your home, this inevitably includes twinkling lights! However, there are a few important things to keep in mind when decorating your home.

Lights & Other Decorations

• When decorating your outdoor areas, it is important to choose lights that are rated for outdoor usage, as they are able to withstand the outside elements. Using interior lights outdoors could result in a fire hazard.
• While unpacking your decorations, insure they are not damaged from being packed away for a year. All lights need to be in working order, wires should not be frayed, cracked or exposed.
• While hanging exterior lights, use a ladder made of non-conductive material to reduce your risk of electric shock.
• Invest in a timer to turn your lights on and off; while tempting, you should not leave your interior or exterior lights on 24-hours a day.

Live Christmas Trees

Nothing smells more like the holiday season than a live Christmas tree! While shopping for a live tree, make sure it has not been dried out; a well watered tree has branches that bend and not break. Cut a few inches from the bottom of the tree so it is able to soak up water, extending its life. Be sure to water your tree daily! A live tree generally needs at least one gallon per day.
Place live or artificial trees a minimum of 3 feet away from heat sources, including candles, fireplaces, etc.

Fire safety during the holidays is extremely important! Our team with Todd Claim Service wishes you and your family a safe and happy holiday season.