Fire Safety Important During the Holidays

With the holiday season in full swing, the Brighton Area Fire Authority would like to pass along some holiday season safety information.

Although decorating your homes and businesses is a long-standing tradition, it may also increase your chances of fire. We love decorating too – we just want everyone to be safe!

It doesn’t quite feel like Christmas without a tree to decorate. Hundreds of fires each year can be associated with Christmas trees. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. If your family decorates a natural tree, be sure to keep it watered. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

When selecting a natural tree look for fresh trees. The needles should be hard to pull off and the trunk should be sticky. If lots of needles fall off when shook, the tree has probably dried out and is a fire hazard.

It is important to use only non-flammable or flame-retardant decorations. This includes artificial trees. Be sure not to place any decorations near heat vents and away from exit ways. Also, never place wrapping paper in a fireplace. This can cause a very large fire that will emit dangerous sparks and embers that could result in a chimney fire.

Before hanging lights, inspect them each year for frayed wires, broken bulbs and sockets, and excessive wear. Also be sure that you are only using lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. Do not link more than three light strands. Use extension cords when necessary but do not overload electrical outlets. Make sure to periodically check the wires – they should not be warm to the touch. To be safe, do not leave your lights on unattended.

It is also important to be focused on candle fire safety and prevention. If possible, avoid using lighted candles. If lighted candles are used, place them in sturdy holders and keep them out of reach from children and pets. Never put candles on a Christmas tree and as with lights – do not leave burning candles unattended.

In the event of a fire, remember time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Exit your home and go to the meeting place you and your family have discussed – then call for help.

Finally, make sure all of your smoke alarms are working properly. If your smoke alarms do not work or you do not have a smoke alarm contact the Brighton Area Fire Authority (810-229-6640) and we will install or replace them for free! Working smoke alarms dramatically increase your chances of surviving a fire.