Millburn Fire Department: Keep Safe This Holiday Season With These Tips

Millburn, NJ – The Millburn Fire Department has issued an alert advising residents to remember and observe holiday safety guidelines this winter season.

“At this most festive time of year, it’s more important than ever to protect one’s home and family from preventable tragedies,” Millburn Fire Chief J. Michael Roberts. “Just this month, in South Dakota, a garage fire occurred when a string of Christmas lights was installed improperly. It was only due to the vigilant efforts of first responders that the damage wasn’t more serious.”

“As a reminder, the Millburn Fire Department offers free safety surveys of local homes,” added Roberts.

Millburn and Short Hills residents interested in scheduling a survey can contact the MFD at (973) 564-7043.

Among the MFD’s safety recommendations:

• Candles should be used only under supervision. Never leave candles unattended, or place them near curtains, paper, or combustible decorations. In recent years, a variety of safe battery-operated candles with realistic “flames” have hit the market.
• The use of home heating systems carries the increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Homes should be equipped with working carbon monoxide detectors, which are tested regularly and replaced according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Heating systems should be serviced annually, and space heaters should never be left unattended or placed near combustible materials.
• Electric decorations, including lights and candelabras, have become much safer over the years — but care should still be taken. Lights and cords should be carefully inspected, and decorations that will be exposed to outdoor weather should be plugged into three-prong (ground fault-interrupted) receptacles to prevent the risk of fire and electric shock. When using staples to hang lights, take care not to pierce or damage wires.
• When displaying real Christmas trees, residents are encouraged to use trees that are freshly cut and not dry. The tree should be kept in water that is replenished regularly, and trees should never be placed near a flame or heat source. Studies have shown that a dry Christmas tree can become an uncontrollable fire in less than one minute.
• Fireplaces should be inspected periodically, and flues and chimneys should be cleaned annually. A variety of local companies offer this service. Only dry and seasoned hardwood should be burned.