Residential fires occur mostly in the winter. Several factors contribute to the rise, including an increase in cooking and heating, in addition to flammable holiday decorations. Below are ten fire prevention tips:
1. Maintain carbon monoxide and smoke detectors on a regular basis and test the batteries.
2. Skip the candles and opt for battery-operated candles instead.
3. Remove flammable materials from around the cooking area and never leave the area unattended.
4. Keep a live tree watered, when it dries out, remove it from your home. Artificial trees should be flame retardant and the decorations non-flammable.
5. Have your chimney, fireplace, wood/coal stove, furnace and any other alternative heat sources checked by a pro. Space heaters should not be left on or in proximity to flammable items.
6. Invest in LED lights and only use the recommended amount.
7. Read and follow the directions and safety precautions of portable heaters.
8. Don’t overload outlets and use power strips.
9. All lights and holiday décor should be turned off before leaving your home or going to sleep.
10. Look for any exposed wires, frayed appliance cords or loose connections.