4 Fire-Safety Tips for Preventing Holiday Fires

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Has your property been damaged in a fire? At SERVPRO Richardson, our Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration experts are always here and happy to help, 24/7

Nothing says Happy Holidays like a festive fireworks display, cozy hearth, or colorful Christmas tree. If you're looking to get into the holiday spirit, you want to do it safely. Here are our top tips for preventing holiday fires. 

Has your property been damaged in a fire? At SERVPRO Richardson, our Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration experts are always here and happy to help, 24/7. Give us a call at (972) 690-1414 for a free estimate. 

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are a staple for New Years' and Independence Day celebrations. If you'll be lighting fireworks at home, keep those tips in mind for fire safety:

• Choose a location far away from buildings, brush, and trees
• Be sure that pets and children stand back from the fireworks
• Keep a supply of water or a fire extinguisher nearby

If there's a drought, consider doing something else to celebrate that doesn't involve a flame. A stray spark landing on parched grass and leaves can get out of control fast. 

Fireplaces

Nothing illuminates the gloom of long, winter days and nights like a lighted hearth. Keep these fire safety tips in mind for fireplaces:

• Get the fireplace and chimney inspected
• Keep flammable items at least three feet away from open flames
• Install a fire screen to keep embers and sparks where they belong
• Be sure to extinguish all embers before leaving or going to bed

Also, refrain from burning wrapping paper in the fireplace. These items burn quickly and intensely and can start a flash fire. Only burn seasoned wood in the fireplace. 

Christmas Trees

If you prefer a real tree, be sure to water it every day. Dry needles and wood can quickly spark and become an out-of-control house fire. 

Do not plug in more than three light strings to each other. Use a power strip and throw out broken or old light strings. Never leave the lights on if no one will be home. 

Candles

Keep all flammable items, such as curtains or holiday decor, at least three feet away from an open candle flame. Put the candles on non-flammable surfaces. And be sure to include a tray or aluminum foil-lined dish underneath that will collect the wax. 

Keep the candles out of reach of curious pets and small children, and do not leave a burning candle unattended. 

Preventing Electrical Fires

Faulty wiring causes an estimated 51,000 fires every year. Keep these holiday fire safety tips in mind to prevent a devastating electrical fire:

• Always use extension cords for their intended use
• Plug outdoor lights into circuits protected with GFCIs
• Secure outdoor lights to supports that keep them from blowing in high winds
• Keep extension cords free of snow and water
• Do not pinch extension cords in doorways or windows
• Turn off all holiday light decorations when leaving 
• Stay at least 10 feet away from power lines when hanging holiday decorations
• Don't overload the outlet with too many decorations

Fire Damage and Restoration: We're Here 24/7

A stray spark can quickly become a raging fire in a matter of minutes. At SERVPRO Richardson, we've been cleaning and restoring fire-damaged buildings for decades. We're here 24/7 for your damage and restoration needs. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.