| From the membership of the Huntingtown VFD, have a safe and happy holidays!
To ensure you have a safe holiday, please read these important facts:
1) One of every three residential Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
2) Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 40 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home structure fires.
3) A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every six of Christmas tree fires.
4) More than half (56%) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.
5) December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 11% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.
6) Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer.
Christmas Tree Safety Tips:
Picking the tree:
1) If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
2) Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Placing the tree:
1) Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1" - 2" from the base of the trunk.
2) Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
3) Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
4) Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
Lighting the tree:
1) Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
2) Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.
3) Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
4) Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
After Christmas:
1) Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.
For additional information:
1) http://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/holiday.html
2) http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/holidays/christmas-tree-fires/christmas-tree-safety-tips |
