Christmas decorations that brighten the season also increase the risk of fire and injury. St. Tammany Fire District #1 makes the following recommendations to lessen these risks.
Outdoor Safety Tips:
- To reduce the risk of electrical shock when hanging holiday lights, use a dry wooden ladder and insulated staples that are hammered in rather than a staple gun.
- Waterproof all electrical connections and keep them elevated so rainwater will not drain into the connection and cause a shock or short circuit.
- Avoid standing in water while handling electrical wiring or when using power tools.
- Shut off electrical power when replacing bulbs and while putting up and taking down holiday lighting.
- Always use an extension cord that has a three-pronged plug that is approved by Underwriters Laboratory for outdoor use.
- Never allow the bulbs to touch combustible material, such as plastics, leaves, grass, or pine needles.
- Avoid buying Christmas trees with shedding needles as it is a sign that the tree is dry and a greater fire risk
- Cut two inches from the base of the tree trunk so it can better absorb water.
- Keep tree outdoors in a bucket of water for a few days before bringing it indoors to ensure the tree has absorbed enough moisture to stay fresher. This will make it less of a fire hazard.
- Install your tree away from all heat sources, open flames and exits.
- Replace any light string that has frayed or broken wires, loose connections, or broken or cracked sockets.
- Don\’t overload extension cords, adapters, or outlets.
- Don\’t place electrical cords where they can pose a tripping hazard.
- Don\’t place electrical cords under rugs or carpet, as walking traffic can weaken the insulation and increase the risk of fire and electrical shock.
- Don\’t hang electric lights from a metallic tree because damaged insulation could electrically charge the tree and cause a shock or fire. Instead use colored spotlights above or beside the tree.
- Always unplug the tree lights when you leave the house or go to bed.
All homes should have a working smoke detector in each bedroom and one working smoke detector on each level of the home. Detectors should be tested once a month and the batteries should be replaced every six months. St. Tammany Fire District #1 also strongly urges all residents to have a fire escape plan. Fire escape plans should have two ways for every member of the household to escape and designate a place for everyone to meet. Fire drills should be held once a month.
\”Every year, thousands of families have their holidays disrupted by avoidable fires,\” said Chief of Fire Prevention Neil Ricca. \”The women and men of Fire District 1 are available to respond around the clock, but with simple prevention, we can all have a safe and happy holiday season.\”
Media Contact:
James Hartman, [email protected]
(504) 458-4600