Christmas Safety

Tree Safety

• When purchasing an artificial tree make sure it specifies that the tree is fire resistant. When purchasing real trees try to buy a tree that is as fresh as possible because it is less of a fire hazard than a dry tree.
• Water a cut tree on a daily basis and keep them away from fireplaces or other heat sources that can dry the tree out and create a fire hazard.
• When decorating, use fire retardant decorations and never leave a lit tree unattended.
• Place your tree out of the way of traffic and make sure to not block doorways.
• Dispose of your tree properly, soon after the end of the holidays before the needles dry out.
• Avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable or have small removable parts that can be swallowed by children. Also avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food as a child could be tempted to eat them.

Christmas Lights

• Purchase lights and electric decorations which have been approved by a testing agency such as the Underwriters Laboratory (UL).
• Check all lighting for frayed wires, broken plugs, and sockets. Never overload outlets, use no more than three strands of lights on a single extension cord.
• When hanging lights outside always use appropriate weatherproof lights and make sure they are firmly supported to protect from wind damage.
• Never use candles on or near trees or other flammable decorations and place them where they can not be knocked over.
• Turn off all lights on trees and other decorations before you go to bed or leave the house.

General Holiday Safety

• Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of the reach of children.
• Avoid smoking in the household near any flammable decorations.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothes near open flames, such as those of a fireplace, stove, or candlelit table.
• After decorating is complete check for and eliminate potential danger spots near candles, fireplaces, trees, and/or electrical connections.