According to the National Fire Prevention Association, holiday trees and decorations account for about 400 home fires annually. This results in approximately 24 deaths and over $13 million in property damage.
Do not become a statistic. Follow this advice to keep your holiday safe and enjoyable.
• If choosing a cut live tree, select one that is fresh. If needles are already falling off, it could dry out and become a potential fire hazard.
• Once you have the tree home, don’t place it near any heat sources, radiators, fireplaces. Be sure it doesn’t block any of your homes’ exits.
• Always keep the tree stand full of water; a dry tree will become flammable.
• If you use lights, inspect them each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory.
• Don’t overload electrical outlets.
• If you’re away or sleeping, unplug all decorations.
• If you use candles, never leave them burning while unattended.
• Be sure candles are in firm stable holders, located where they cannot be knocked over by people or pets.
• If the power goes out and you use a generator, never run it indoors, not even in the garage. Always direct the exhaust away from the house.
• Be extra safe while cooking. Kitchen fires are more common over the holidays.
• Clear the ice and snow from walks to prevent slips and falls.
• It’s a good time to review your exit drills in the home and locate your family meeting place.
• Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, in the hall outside of the sleeping areas and on every level of the home. The Granby Fire Marshal’s Office offers free inspection of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms for one- and two-family homes in our town. There is no cost or obligation involved. Help us keep you and your family safe. Contact us today at 860-844-5321 or firemarshal@granby-ct.gov
Wishing you a happy and safe holiday season!