Christmas Safety Tips

Don't you just love all the Christmas lights this time of year? We keep them up around our house and already have the tree decorated and shining bright through the front window. Lots of people do, and this sometimes leads to house fires and some pretty tough times for everyone.

Here are some ideas for keeping that tree beautiful and smoke-free:

• Don't use any string of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.
• Don't use lit candles to decorate a tree, and place them well away from tree branches.
• Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily. Don't purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles.
• Choose a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over.
• Use only artificial trees labeled as fire-retardant.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source and try to position it near an outlet so that cords aren't running long distances.
• Don't place the tree where it may block exits.
• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house.

In addition to the tree, here are some other tips to keep your Christmas a joyous time:

• Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Keep an eye on the stove!
• Provide plenty of large, deep ashtrays for guests who smoke and check them frequently. Or ask them to smoke outside.
• After a party, always check on, between and under upholstery and cushions and inside trashcans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.
• Keep matches and lighters up high, out of sight and reach of children. When smokers visit your home, ask that they keep smoking materials with them.

And how can we forget the fireplace? If you have a wood-burning fireplace, keep this in mind:

• Use care with "fire salts," which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten. Keep them away from children.
• Don't burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. That stuff ignites quickly and burns intensely.
• Remove all greens, boughs, papers, and other decorations from fireplace area before lighting a fire. Check to see that the flue is open.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year. Don't ruin it for you and your family with a fire or tragedy. Leave a comment if you have any other suggestions or tips to make Christmas a safe time of year.