Decorate Safely This Season and Stay Fire-Safe | SERVPRO of East Cobb

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced a fire loss, SERVPRO is here to help 24/7 and can restore your property to preloss condition.

Can’t you just see this picture in your mind: glowing holiday lights, soft music and sweet smells wafting through the air? Taking in a concert at the Fox or at the Performing Arts Center, or shopping at the kids fair are all traditions of the seasons to look forward to.

It is easy to get lost in the wonder of this time of year, but we also need to be fire-aware during the season.

You can decorate safely and ensure you have preventive measures in place to protect your home. Paying close attention to the safety of your home means you can relax peacefully the whole season long.

Top Seasonal Hazards

Each year, there are 790 structure fires that start due to misuse of holiday decorations.

When decorations are hung too close to a heating source, they can become highly flammable. Christmas trees and candles also start a number of fires this time of year. These winter blazes can spread quickly and leave your home with extreme damages.

If you keep a real tree in your home, be sure to water it frequently and clean any needles that fall off. Artificial trees should have a tag that lists them as fire-resistant. If your artificial tree is several years old, consider replacing it to be sure that you have the safest version. Always unplug your decorations at night and any time you are away from home, and don’t overload your outlets.

Take Preventive Measures

You likely read that line “The stockings were hung from the chimney with care” to your family multiple times over the season, so make it your motto as you decorate your home.

• An average of 20 house fires a day are started by candles. Burn your holiday scents away from any materials, and be sure to blow them out when you leave the room. If your home has a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned before you turn it on.
• Any decorations you use outdoors should be rated as such in order to prevent failures in wet weather. Hang lights securely with insulated nails so they do not fall and increase your risk of brush fires. Check with your community to ensure there are no current guidelines in place restricting decorations.
• Add checking your smoke detectors to your decorating duties and make sure you have one on every level that works appropriately. Practice your fire safety plan with everyone in your household, and make sure SERVPRO is in your contact list for fast recovery if your home is damaged during a fire.
• Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.