Holiday Fire Prevention Tips

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Can you believe it’s almost Christmas already?! This year sure has flown by!

Although you mostly likely have already decorated your home for the holidays, SERVPRO of Hayward would like to share a few holiday fire preventions tips with you!

As you’re decorating your tree, yard and home, be sure to check all of your extension cords and holiday light cords for breaks or frays. Also, it is recommended to only string a maximum of up to three strands of holiday lights together. But don’t let that stop you from putting up all the lights that your heart desires! Just use another extension cords for your next three strands. Turn off all of your holiday lights before you leave home or go to bed.

Ensure that your outdoor decorations are intended for outdoor use. Indoors decorations that are used outdoors can break down in our harsh Wisconsin conditions and pose a risk of electrical shock or fire.

Are you an artificial or live Christmas tree kind of person? I, personally, used to be an artificial tree person but switched over to a live tree for the first time in 2020 and I don’t see myself switching back any time soon! Either way, there are fire hazards related to each. With both types of trees, keep them at least three feet away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, space heaters, candles, etc., that could potentially start them on fire.   If you decide to go with an artificial tree, make sure you look for a fire-resistant label on it when you purchase it. If a live tree is your thing, keep it watered and fresh! Dry needs and wood can catch fire easily. Which leads me to another safety tip! When you dispose of your live Christmas tree after the holiday is over, keep it away from your home and other buildings. Of the ten days with the most the Christmas tree fires, none of them are before Christmas, according to the NFPA Fire Analysis & Research Division.

SERVPRO of Hayward wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!