According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments respond to an average of 770 house fires caused by Christmas lights and an average of 160 house fires caused by Christmas trees each year. Christmas Eve and Christmas day are the 2nd and 3rd highest day for cooking fires (beat only by Thanksgiving), with twice as many fires than on an average day.
The good news is that all of these fires are preventable by taking proper safety measures.
Preventing Holiday Fires:
- Keep live trees watered - dry trees can ignite easily
- If you decide against a live tree, look for fire-resistant artificial options
- Check decorative lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs
- Don't overload outlets - never use more than 3 strands of lights per extension cord
- Only burn wood in your fireplace
- Be sure that any extension cords you use outside are labeled for outdoor use
- Always plug outdoor decorations into a GFCI outlet or use a surge protector
- If you're going to be away from home, turn off the Christmas tree lights
No matter what holiday you celebrate, ServiceMaster Restoration Services wish you a happy, safe, and healthy holiday season!
