12 Holiday Fire Safety Tips!
Review the tips and full descriptions below for a safe holiday season.
Parents and guardians, download the holiday fire safety checklist and have your kids check off all the boxes!
12 Holiday Fire Safety Tips!
Day 1
Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned before lighting a fire. A clean fireplace means a safe and cozy season.
Keep your home warm and safe by scheduling an annual chimney inspection and cleaning with a WETT-certified technician to remove creosote buildup and check for any damage.
Day 2
Always keep your Christmas tree well-watered. A hydrated tree is a safe tree.
If you celebrate with a tree this year, make sure it gets a drink every day. Dry trees can catch fire quickly, so let’s keep it green and hydrated for a safe season.
Day 3
Always use outdoor-rated lights outside. They’re made to withstand the elements. Brighten up your holiday safely.
Holiday lights add a festive touch, but safety is key. Use outdoor-rated lights, check for frays or cracks, and avoid nails or staples for hanging to prevent wire damage and fire hazards.
Day 4
Don’t overload electrical outlets or misuse extension cords. Spread out your decor safely to avoid overheating.
Let’s keep the holiday lights bright without overloading outlets. Too many plugs in one spot can cause overheating, so spread out your decor safely. And remember, don’t run extension cords under carpets or near heat sources.
Day 5
Turn off holiday lights before bed. Rest easy with safety in mind.
Holiday lights add magic to the season but turn them off before bed or when you leave home. It helps prevent overheating and ensures safety.
Day 6
Keep flammables 3 feet away from heat sources. After unwrapping, dispose of paper to keep the festivities safe.
To keep your holidays safe, be sure to keep flammable items—like presents, Christmas trees, wrapping paper, and decorations—at least 3 feet (1 metre) away from heat sources such as candles, fireplaces, or space heaters.
Day 7
Keep decorations off sprinkler systems. They can block or damage sprinkler heads.
Decorations like mistletoe and garlands may look festive, but they should never be hung on sprinkler systems. Decorations can block or damage sprinkler heads, which are crucial for fire safety.
Day 8
Matches and lighters should be stored out of reach and locked away. Out of sight, safe, and secure.
Matches and lighters should be stored high and out of sight. Let’s keep them safely out of reach of curious hands this season.
Day 9
Don’t leave candles unattended. Opt for battery-operated instead.
Candles bring warmth and cheer, but they should never be left alone. Always blow them out before leaving the room or going to bed. Better yet, use flameless, battery-operated candles for the same cozy glow without the risk.
Day 10
Keep working batteries in smoke alarms. Give your family the gift of safety this holiday season.
Smoke alarms can't protect us if the batteries are missing. Ensure your alarms are ready with fresh batteries, and test them each month to keep everyone safe.
Day 11
Have a fire extinguisher accessible. Ensure everyone knows how to use it.
Having a fire extinguisher nearby is essential for acting quickly in an emergency, especially in the kitchen where fires are more likely to happen. Place it in an easy-to-reach location, but not too close to the stove and remember the PASS method:
- Pull the pin
- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
- Squeeze the handle
- Sweep from side to side
Day 12
Always have a designated cook in the kitchen. Keep holiday treats safe and sweet.
The holidays are a busy time in the kitchen, and even a quick distraction can lead to danger. Always have a “designated cook” to stay focused in the kitchen and avoid leaving any hot appliances unattended.