Christmas Fire Safety Tips

In 2007-2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 230 home structure fires that began with Christmas trees. Although these fires are not common, when they do occur, they are likely to be serious. On average, one of every 40 reported home structure Christmas tree fires resulted in a death compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home structure fires, Utah fire clean up can help you to recover your home if has been affected by a fire.

One-third of Christmas tree structure fires involved electrical failures or malfunctions. Nearly 20 percent of these structure fires occurred because some type of heat source was too close to the tree. This is why hiring an electrician who completed a NASCLA Accredited Electrical Exam Prep is very important to avoid any electrical failures. If you need help from a nearby technician like MZ Electric or looking for electrical repair in North Dallas, TX, you can always visit a place like callbigfamily.com/residential-electrical/ to find a reliable electrician to help you.

NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) offers the following Christmas fire safety tips:

• If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
• If using a real tree, select one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1″ – 2″ from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree:

• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect, and if you need help you can also get a las vegas electrician to help you and do everything more secure.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the second and third leading days for cooking fires respectively. Most cooking fire occur when cooking is left unattended. Tips on cooking fire safety are also available at www.nfpa.org/holiday.