Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
With the holiday season in full swing, homeowners are reminded that fire safety during this time of year is more crucial than ever. According to the National Fire Protection Association, December is one of the leading months for house fires. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were the second and third leading days for home cooking fires in 2024, surpassed only by Thanksgiving Day. It is estimated that 48 percent of home structure fires and 35 percent of home fire injuries involve the kitchen or cooking equipment. With that in mind, the Madison Fire Department has listed their “Top 10 Holiday Safety Recommendations for Homeowners for the Holiday Season.” These recommendations are:
• Inspect and maintain heating sources. Cold weather can come quickly this time of year. Be sure to inspect space heaters, HVAC systems and fireplaces prior to use. Always place space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire and plug them directly into a wall outlet. Have fireplace flues professionally cleaned and inspected.
• Practice safe cooking habits. Cooking-related fires happen more often around the holidays than any other time. Never leave a stovetop unattended while cooking. Keep children and pets away from hot surfaces. If you choose to deep-fry a turkey, do it outside and away from structures.
• Choose safe holiday lighting. Always use UL-listed lights that are designed for indoor or outdoor lighting and always use in the appropriate manner. Replace lights that have frayed wires or broken bulbs. Turn holiday lights off when leaving home or going to bed. Consider LED lighting that operates at much lower temperatures and uses much less electricity.
• Water real Christmas trees daily. A real tree may bring with it a nice fragrance, but it also comes with greater fire hazard. Dried out trees can catch fire easily. Water them every day and keep them away from fireplaces, heating vents and direct sunlight.
• Keep decorations away from heat sources. Yes, the poem does talk about stockings “hung by the chimney with care,” but that can also pose a fire threat. Stockings, garlands, wrapping paper and artificial greenery should be kept away from fireplaces, heating sources and any open flames.
• Candle safety. Never leave burning candles unattended. Lit candles should stay at least a foot away from any combustibles. Consider using LED flameless candles instead.
• Use extension cords wisely. Only use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord outdoors. Do not overload outlets or connect multiple extension cords together. If a cord becomes warm to the touch, unplug it right away.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested on a monthly basis and batteries replaced as needed. Remember carbon monoxide is odorless and can be dangerous. Replace alarms that are older than 10 years old.
• Prepare for rapid temperature changes. It has been said if you don’t like the weather in our area, stick around for a few minutes, it will change. Be sure to wrap exposed pipes, change HVAC filters and use portable heaters wisely when sudden cold fronts approach.
• Celebrate responsibly with fireworks. If fireworks are permitted, always ignite them outdoors in clear, open spaces. Keep a water supply nearby, never attempt to relight “duds” and soak any used fireworks before disposal.
By adhering to these safety suggestions, you can be much more likely to enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.