Holiday Fire Safety: What to Look Out For

The holiday season is a time to spend with friends and family. But it’s also a time when fire safety should be top of mind.

Many homes have an increased risk for fires during the holidays. There are decorations, guests and sometimes even literal trees in the home. All of that makes for a festive atmosphere, but it also poses potential fire risks.

With an average of 240 home fires per day between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, holiday fire safety is extremely important.

In this article, we’ll discuss why fire safety is a big concern. We’ll explore some common scenarios that could put your home at risk. Plus, we’ll provide tips to your home and your family safe.

Why Is Fire Safety A Concern During The Holidays?

The holiday season is a time for parties, cooking delicious food, and spending quality time with family.

Unfortunately, it’s also the perfect storm for potential fire risks in your home like these:

• Overcrowding in the home is a common cause of holiday fire hazards.
• It’s possible that families are too busy to notice their surroundings. Unattended candles, for example, can be dangerous.
• With extra company comes additional risk. Houseguests, especially children, may not be aware of the risks in your home you’re aware of.
• Holiday decorations, like lights connected via extension cords, can present another risk. This is another common source of fires during the holiday season.

Let’s look at what you can do to avoid these fire hazards.

RELATED: Deck the Halls Without the Hassle: 4 Quick Holiday Decorating Ideas

Tips To Keep Your Home Safe and Fire-Free

While there are some risks for fire during the holiday season, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t decorate or celebrate. Instead, follow the tips below to ensure your home is safe and fire-free.

Decorations

Make sure your holiday decorations are safe for indoor use. If not, don’t put them up in your home!

Light Safety

Turn off lights when you leave the house and when you go to bed.

Candles

Keep candles and other fire sources away from dried foliage, windowsills and Christmas trees. Wherever they’re kept should be cool enough that a spark won’t catch on fire.

RELATED: How to Organize Your Kitchen for Baking With Your Grandkids

Escape Plan

Have an escape plan in place for your family in the event of a fire. (This is something you should have all year ‘round.)

Make sure to practice it when all is well so you know what to do in case an emergency arises.

Ability To Communicate

Keep your phone close by when celebrating with friends and family during this time of year. That way there’s always a way to get help if needed.

Final Thoughts

These holiday fire safety tips should be followed at all times. Make sure everyone in your family knows them and practices them.

We hope you and your family have a wonderful, fun, safe holiday season!

KEEP READING: What You Need to Know About Your Home’s Smoke Alarms