Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season

11/28/2016 (Permalink)

The holiday season is a time for gathering with friends and family to enjoy fellowship and quality time. As the weather outside turns frightful, we rely on the warmth of our homes to host gatherings with loved ones. 

Holiday Fire Facts

• One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires. 
• A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every four of Christmas tree fires. 
• Two out of five home decoration fires are started by candles. 
• One-third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 

Pretty lights, candles and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday season - however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening. 

The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season. 

• Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles. 
• Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer's instructions. 
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed. 
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed. 
• Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees. 
• Keep anything that can catch on fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains - away from your stove top. 
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave. 

What happens if a disaster strikes your property during the most wonderful time of the year? You can't afford to wait for a restoration company to return from Christmas vacation to begin the cleanup. You need help now - even if it is the night before Christmas. If a fire or water damage strikes your home or business during the holidays, give SERVPRO of Quincy a call at 217-223-2993. We are on call 365 days a year, because we know disasters can't wait.