Millions of trees are lit up around the holidays so it’s a good time to heed the advice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the US Fire Administration about fire safety and holiday decorating.
Did you know that between December 24 and December 26, deaths, injuries and dollar losses caused by fires increase an average of 50 percent, 61 percent and 43 percent, respectively, according to the U.S. Fire Administration? That was news to me until I googled to learn more so I could write this blog post. Pretty scary stuff.
These tips are from the CPSC and other fire safety and insurance sites.
< When purchasing an artificial tree, make sure the tree is “Fire Resistant.” Although this label does not mean the tree won’t catch fire, it does mean the tree is more resistant to catching fire. Also, if you buy one of those shiny metallic trees -- remember, do not place light strands on them!
< If you go with a live tree, like we did, check to make sure the tree is fresh. That means it is green, the needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The bottom of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
< In your house, make sure the set the tree up away from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents, and radiators. Heated rooms dry out live trees – so make sure to water your tree daily, check the water levels and keep the stand filled with water. My kids have a morning "water check" of our tree.
< If you have kids your home, pay attention to decorations. Sharp, weighted or breakable decorations should be put up high, out of reach from kids. The CPSC cautions that you should avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.
< When you light your tree, make sure you are not overloading electrical circuits. Read and follow manufacturer guidelines for the number of light strands connected to each other. Do not use multiple-plug adapters to increase the number of items you can connect to a standard electrical outlet.
< Check your electrical items to make sure they are still in good shape. Don’t use ones with broken or cracked light sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections. Make sure the ground prong on three-prong plugs is in place. If you are decorating trees outside, make sure the electrical cords you use are rated for outdoor use.
< Avoid placing trees near room exits. Think about it – if the tree catches on fire, you may not be able to get out.
< Even though Santa may be using the fireplace, you should always use a fireplace screen.
For more information and to Get a free brochure with more holiday decorating safety tips visit www.cpsc.gov.
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