The candles, the decorations, the tree, a scenic drive … they’re all the things that make the holidays special. Sadly, they can also create hazards if certain safety measures aren’t considered.
“Too often we see the holidays turn tragic for area families,” explained Rick Coons, CEO at Indiana Electric Cooperatives, “when a few simple safety precautions could make all the difference. We’re encouraging everyone to take a few moments to survey their safety risks this holiday season.”
The location of your Christmas tree is a smart place to start. Whether artificial or fresh-cut, keep Christmas trees away from heat sources such as fireplaces, registers or portable heaters. If you have a fresh-cut tree, be sure to water it daily.
When lighting your tree, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how many light strands you can safely connect. If you no longer have the original packaging, consider investing in new lights. And be sure to unplug them before leaving home or going to bed.
Taking time to inspect extension cords, and the cords on light and other decorations, may seem like a simple step but it’s not worth skipping. Look for worn, broken or frayed wires, loose bulbs, and cracked or broken insulation. “Many of us are guilty of trying to repair cords with electrical tape,” Coons commented, “but the risks involved are far too great.”
Candles make for lovely holiday displays, but improper use can result in tragedy. Keep candles in stable fireproof containers away from trees and other decorations. And always extinguish candles before leaving a room, leaving home, or going to bed.
Likewise, a crackling fireplace sets a beautiful scene for the holidays. Ensure that yours operates safely by having it inspected once each year, even if you don’t use it often. Use a screen to contain sparks, and burn only seasoned wood, never wrapping paper or trash. Dispose of ashes in a fireproof container only after they are completely cool.
Should the worst happen, ensure that you have a working fire extinguisher in your home and smoke detectors on each level and in each bedroom. “The holidays are a great time to test detectors and ensure they have fresh batteries.”
Though we often focus inside the home, we can’t overlook the hazards that Mother Nature often brings around the holidays. Should you come upon downed power lines, call 911 immediately and try to keep others a safe distance away. If downed lines come in contact with your vehicle, it is crucial that you stay inside the vehicle until help arrives.
By keeping these safety measures in mind throughout this season, you’ll ensure that the holidays are filled with only happy memories for you and your loved ones.
Sources: SafeElectricity.org, Electrical Safety Foundation International, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
