Fire Safety Reminders For Christmas Trees And Holiday Lights

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire may form an evocative Christmas image, but ideally, that orange glow will remain safely contained within the fireplace. Sadly, the very decor that makes the season so cheery often leads to tragedy, as evidenced by alarming statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Christmas trees, in particular, are dangerous, with the NFPA reporting that these key decorative elements prompted 160 known home fires between 2013 and 2017. Most could have been avoided, had homeowners abided by these key safety precautions:

Keep Heat Sources Away From Trees

Candles and trees should not mix. Most families have mercifully departed from the previous tradition of keeping candles on trees, but that doesn’t necessarily stop them from lighting them nearby. NFPA data reveals that close heat sources account for one-quarter of holiday fires.

Blow Out Candles As You Leave the Room

Candles should never burn in empty rooms — or anywhere people intend to sleep. This applies to many holidays. Those celebrating Hanukah, for example, should avoid the temptation to leave the Menorah burning through the night.

It only takes one moment of distraction for an open flame to prove disastrous. Hence, NFPA reports suggesting that U.S. fire departments on average, respond to 22 home candle fires per day during the holiday season.

Take Care of Real Trees — Or Go Artificial

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends watering trees on a daily basis, as dryness can increase the potential for deadly flames. If you can’t commit to watering your tree regularly, opt for an artificial version instead.

If somebody else’s negligence has caused you or a loved one to suffer during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to reach out to Regan Zambri Long PLLC. We will provide the proactive representation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.