Holidays are more likely to result in fires within home

Twinkling lights and festive decorations are a big part of the holiday season. When decorating the home, everyone is encouraged to make fire safety a priority.

Christmas trees and fresh greenery can be a beautiful holiday decoration, but they can also pose a major fire hazard if not properly maintained. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2015 and 2019, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires per year, that started with Christmas trees.

Those fires resulted in an average of two deaths, 12 injuries and $10 million in property damage nationwide. Electrical distribution problems or lighting equipment were involved in almost half of all Christmas tree fires.

When decorating, inspect holiday lights each year, and replace strands that have worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections. Never link more than three light strands together, unless the directions indicate it is safe to do so. If the wires are warm to the touch, unplug and remove them.

Be sure to turn off all lights on trees and other decorations, when going to bed or leaving the house, and unplug extension cords when they are not in use.

It only takes a matter of seconds, for a fire involving a dry live tree to grow into a large blaze. Live trees should be kept at least three feet away from heat sources, such as a fireplace or heater. Heat will dry out a real tree, causing it to more easily ignite when exposed to heat, flame or sparks. Live trees should be watered daily.

Candles are also very popular during the holiday season, with Christmas a peak day for candle fires across the country. Never leave a burning candle unattended and make sure they are kept at least 12 inches away from flammable materials. Never place candles where children or pets could accidentally knock them over. Instead of lighting real candles, consider using battery-operated flameless candles.

Cooking during the holiday season can also bring fire concerns into the home, with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day among the top days of the year, for cooking fires. If preparing a holiday meal or treats, avoid distractions in the kitchen, keep cooking areas clear of decorations or other items that could catch fire, and have a fire extinguisher available nearby.

Check smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly. Alarms should be located on every level of the home and be tested monthly. Create an escape plan with the family and practice it, so everyone knows two ways to get out of the house in the event of a fire.

Fires caused by heating equipment, the second-leading cause of U.S. home fires year-round, peak during the winter months, when temperatures drop and more people use heating equipment to keep their homes warm. Always use caution around heating devices and follow equipment instructions.