Cherokee Fire Doing 'Keep The Wreath Green' To Raise Awareness

CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA — During the holiday season, Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services will be participating in the “Keep the Wreath Green” campaign through Jan. 1. One green bulb on the wreath will be replaced by a red bulb for every structure fire that occurs in Cherokee County during that time period.

The purpose of this campaign is to remember to practice fire prevention during the holidays. It’s the time of year when we enjoy festive meals with family and friends, deck our halls with colorful decorations and listen to squeals of delight as children open their brightly wrapped presents.

Use this checklist to ensure everyone has a safe holiday:

• Decorate with kids in mind: Move ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks toward the top of the tree and put things that are fine to touch at the bottom.
• Be sure to water your natural tree often to prevent dry needles from becoming a fire hazard.
• Discard your tree as soon as possible after the holiday.
• Check your lights for exposed or frayed wires, loose connections and broken sockets.
• Never leave lit candles unattended.
• Store matches and lighters away from children.
• Keep harmful plants like mistletoe berries, holly berries and Jerusalem Cherry away from children and pets. If an accident does occur call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
• Buy toys appropriate for children’s ages. Check for choking hazards.
• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from any other object.
• Be careful about having a fire when stockings are hung on the fireplace.
• Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping.
• If traveling this season, be sure everyone in the car is safe. Have your car seats checked before you hit the road.
• Plan for your trip to take longer with little ones.
• Getting a new bike this holiday? Don’t forget the helmet.
• Keep a 3-foot kid-free zone around the oven and stove.
• Check your smoke alarm batteries.
• Sleep with your bedroom doors closed to prevent spread of fire.
• Review your family fire escape plan and have a meeting place outside the home in case of fire.
• Teach your guests your fire escape plan.
• When attending holiday celebrations designate a driver to get everyone home safely.

The fire stations where the wreaths are placed are Station 4 in the Free Home, Station 12 in Waleska, Fire Station 19 at Ridge Mill Court, Fire Station 21 near Airport Road, Fire Station 22 on Bells Ferry Road and Fire Station 23 on Vaughan Road in Hickory Flat. For more information on Holiday Safety visit www.cherokeecountyfire.com and www.safekidscherokeecounty.org.