Holiday Fire Safety

Christmas Trees | Candles | Entertaining/Cooking | Decorating | Chimneys

Holiday Entertaining & Cooking

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the United States.

• Keep a watchful eye on the food you prepare.
• Keep a well-maintained fire extinguisher in the kitchen near an exit route
• Know how to use the fire extinguisher before a fire emergency occurs (use the P-A-S-S method: Pull the pin; Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire; Squeeze the handle; and Sweep the nozzle back and forth until the fire goes out).
• NEVER use water on a grease fire!
• Always dial 911 if you have an emergency.

If you will be hosting guests who smoke, use caution and think fire-smart!

• Provide plenty of large, deep ashtrays.
• Don't allow guests to throw butts in the trash where they can smolder and cause a fire.
• Completely douse cigarettes with water before discarding them in the trash.
• After a party, do a thorough look under cushions and around upholstery for any smoldering cigarettes.

Fire safety for all seasons...

• Be sure your home has functioning smoke alarms on each floor, outside of sleeping areas (* we prefer one alarm in each bedroom).
• Smoke alarm batteries should be replaced at least once per year, and your family should have an accompanying home fire escape plan.
• If you have little ones, keep all matches and lighters high, out of their reach, preferably in a LOCKED cabinet. If you will be visiting family or friends, be sure they keep these tools out of children's reach, as well.
• Teach children a hands-off approach when they come across matches and lighters. Learn more about juvenile fire-setting.