Palatine Fire Department to 'Keep the Wreath Red' This Holiday Season

Submitted by the village of Palatine 

The Palatine Fire Department will again be participating in the annual “Keep the Wreath Red” holiday safety program. This public-safety campaign was started in the mid 1950’s to increase fire safety awareness during the holidays.

Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, a wreath will be decorated only in red lights at each of our five fire stations. In the event of a “holiday-related” fire, we will exchange a red bulb with a white bulb. We hope as you pass the wreaths you will consider potential fire safety problems in your home and take the time to correct them. Some safety considerations include:

• Check all holiday lighting for wear or damaged wiring and replace as needed.
• Use indoor/outdoor lighting and extension cords where they are intended.
• Do not run lighting or extension cords through windows, doors or across sidewalks.
• Do not overload electrical cords. If it is hot, it is overloaded!
• Turn off all holiday lighting prior to leaving or going to bed.
• If displaying a live tree, use a sturdy tree stand and water the tree often.
• Keep the tree, wreaths and all holiday decorations away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, space heaters, candles, and heating ducts.
• Make sure smoke detectors are tested and in good working order with fresh batteries.
• Keep and maintain a carbon monoxide detector near the bedrooms.
• Use only sturdy candle holders and only place on firm, uncluttered surfaces.
• Do not place candles in windows near blinds and curtains.
• Have fireplaces and wood burning stoves cleaned regularly.