The holidays are a time for celebrations, but they also bring an increased risk of house fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, more fires occur in December than in any other month. Many of these incidents are caused by activities surrounding our celebrations like cooking and decorating for the holidays. As we gather to cook elaborate meals and decorate our homes, it’s easy to overlook the hazards these activities can create.
Cooking fires
The holiday season often means cooking for more people than usual. Whether it’s roasting a large turkey, frying foods, or preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, our kitchens can quickly become chaotic. This hustle and bustle increases the likelihood of accidents.
Kitchen fire prevention tips
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking, especially when frying or grilling.
- Use timers to remind you of cooking in progress.
- Keep flammable items like kitchen towels and decorations away from heat sources.
- Ensure your smoke alarms are working properly.
- Keep a fire extinguisher fully charged and in the kitchen and know how to use it.
The hazards of Christmas trees
Christmas trees are iconic holiday symbols but can be fire hazards if not properly taken care of. Dried-out trees catch fire quickly, and incidents involving them are often severe.
When a tree becomes dry, its needles are highly flammable. Faulty lights, overloaded electrical outlets, and trees too close to heat sources are often the cause of house fires.
Tree fire prevention tips:
- Water your tree daily to prevent it from drying out.
- Use lights labeled for indoor use — LED lights are best.
- Check for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or other damage before placing lights on the tree.
- Keep your tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and candles.
- Always unplug your tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
- Once the holiday season is over, dispose of the tree quickly before it becomes a greater fire hazard.
General fire prevention tips
No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen. Here are a few general tips to prepare for the unexpected:
- Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
- Create and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
- Keep fire extinguishers accessible in key areas, such as the kitchen and near the tree.
- Avoid using real candles in decorations—opt for battery-operated ones instead.
- Use surge protectors and avoid overloading electrical outlets with holiday lights and appliances.
The holiday season is a time for making memories, not dealing with preventable disasters. By being mindful of the risks associated with cooking and holiday decorations, you can focus on what truly matters: spending time with loved ones. A few simple precautions can ensure your holidays are as safe as they are joyful.
Happy holidays, and stay safe!
