Holiday Fire Prevention Tips for a Safe and Happy Season | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett

6/15/2024 (Permalink)

Keep your home fire safe this holiday season with these helpful tips from SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett!

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and spending quality time with loved ones. However, it's also a time when fire hazards can increase due to festive decorations, cooking, and heating. At SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett, we want to ensure your holidays are safe and memorable for all the right reasons. Here are some essential holiday fire prevention tips to keep your home and family safe this season.

Deck the Halls Safely

Decorating your home is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit, but it's important to do so safely. 

1. Choose Fire-Resistant Decorations: When shopping for decorations, opt for flame-resistant or flame-retardant items. Look for these labels to minimize fire risks.
2. Inspect Lights and Cords: Before hanging lights, check for any frayed wires or broken bulbs. Replace any damaged strands to avoid electrical fires. Use clips instead of nails to secure lights, preventing damage to the cords.
3. Keep Live Trees Hydrated: If you choose a real Christmas tree, ensure it's fresh and well-watered. Dry trees can catch fire more easily, so make sure to keep them away from heat sources and water the tree daily.

Cooking with Care

The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. However, it can also be a hotspot for fires.

1. Stay Alert While Cooking: Never leave cooking food unattended. Keep a close eye on the stove and oven, and use a timer to remind you when it's time to check on your dishes.
2. Keep Flammable Items Away: Ensure that oven mitts, towels, and other flammable items are kept at a safe distance from the stovetop and other heat sources.
3. Use Deep Fryers with Caution: If you're planning to deep-fry your holiday turkey, do it outdoors and away from flammable materials. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid accidents.

Heating Your Home Safely

As temperatures drop, you may be using additional heating sources to keep your home warm and cozy.

1. Maintain Heating Equipment: Have your furnace inspected and cleaned annually by a professional. This helps ensure it's functioning safely and efficiently.
2. Use Space Heaters Wisely: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including curtains, furniture, and bedding. Always turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.
3. Install and Check Smoke Alarms: Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.

By following these holiday fire prevention tips, you can enjoy a festive and worry-free season with your family. Remember, if the unexpected happens, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is here to help with professional fire restoration services. Stay safe and have a wonderful holiday season!

Even a small fire can leave behind massive damage. Call us and get your home put back together quickly, day or night.