by Jason Pallotta, Asst. Chief, Inlet Fire Department

Decorating homes and businesses is a long-standing tradition around the holiday season—unfortunately, these same decorations may increase your chances for a fire.

Based on data from the National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Fire Administration, an estimated 240 home fires involving Christmas trees and another 150 home fires involving holiday lights or decorations occur each year.

Together, these fires result in 21 deaths and $25.2 million in direct property damage.

Here are some tips to keep in mind this year to keep you safe.

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Christmas Trees

Safety begins with picking the proper tree. Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches.

Needles should not break off if the tree has been freshly cut.

A good way to see if a tree is fresh is to bounce the tree on the ground. If a lot of needles fall off, the tree is not fresh and is a fire hazard.

When you find a fresh cut tree and bring it home you should cut two inches off the trunk before putting it in the stand. Once in the stand, fill it with hot water.

Do not place your tree close to a heat source such as a fire place, heat vent, or radiator. Check the water level in the stand daily and add hot water as needed.

Do not block an exit with your tree and do not leave it up for more than two weeks.

Holiday Lights

Inspect your holiday lights each year before putting them up. Watch for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear.

Make sure lights that are being used outdoors are for outdoor use, not all lights are for outdoor use.

Do not link more than three light strands together unless the manufacturer indicates that it is safe to do so.

Check wires periodically to see if they are warm to the touch, if they are they should not be used.

Never leave lights unattended, turn all lights off before leaving your home or going to bed.

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Holiday Decorations

All decorations and artificial trees should be nonflammable or flame retardant and placed away from any heat sources. Do not block any exits with your decorations.

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Candle Care

Consider using battery operated flameless candles. If you do use lit candles make sure they are in a stable holder and placed where they cannot be knocked over by people or pets.

Keep candles at least three feet from anything that can burn. Never leave a room or go to bed with candles still burning.

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Holiday Entertaining

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure that all your guests know your home fire escape plan.

Keep children and pets away from lit candles. Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet. Never leave any stove top cooking unattended.

Please keep these tips in mind this holiday season to keep you and your family safe.

If you have any questions or concerns contact your local fire department or codes office.

Or call me at the Inlet Fire Department at (315) 357-6601 and leave a message.

On behalf of all your local fire fighters and medical providers, have a safe and happy holiday. And remember… Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors save lives!