Fire Safety Tips for the Holidays

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

While house fires can happen any time of year, the holiday season can introduce new hazards that can increase the risk of fire. From decorations to cooking mishaps, many dangers can arise as you prepare for the festivities. Although fire damage can often be repaired when house fires are controlled, here are a few preventative measures to take during the holidays.

Be Cautious in the Kitchen

According to the NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, with Thanksgiving being the peak day for cooking-related fire emergencies. 

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food
• Check food regularly while cooking, use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on
• Keep anything flammable like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances that generate heat. 

Use Candles Safely

Fires caused by candles peak in December. While these decorations can add ambiance and a pleasant aroma to your home, they also present serious fire risks.

• Keep burning candles in a safe space where pets and children can’t knock them over.
• Set a timer on your phone to remember when to blow them out.
• Battery-operated flameless candles are safer alternatives that still produce a warm, atmospheric glow.

Follow Instructions With Lights & Decorations

Whether you’re stringing lights inside or outside your home, follow instructions carefully.

• Avoid stringing more than three strands together at once so you don't overwhelm your outlet and cause electrical fires.
• only use outdoor lights outside your home, as these withstand the elements better than lights designed for indoor use.

You can also prevent fire damage by practicing tree safety. While Christmas tree fires are rare, minimize the risk by keeping your tree watered and disposing of it promptly after the holidays.

If your home sustains fire damage, call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach at 904-429-4457 and we will make it "Like it never even happened."