Have a SAFE Holiday Season! from our OSHA expert

Holiday decorating is a wonderful way to embrace the festive spirit, but staying mindful of safety is essential. Emergency rooms treat thousands of injuries related to decorating accidents each holiday season. Last year alone, fire departments responded to 835 home structure fires caused by holiday decorations, resulting in 3 civilian deaths, 30 injuries, and $14 million in property damage.

To help you celebrate safely, here are some tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

TREE SAFETY

  • For live trees: Cut about two inches off the trunk before placing it in water for better absorption. Water your tree daily and remove it from the building when it becomes dry.
  • For artificial trees: Ensure the tree is labeled “fire-resistant.”
  • Keep your tree at least three feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, and candles.
  • Never block doorways with holiday decorations.
  • Place breakable ornaments or small parts on higher branches, to keep out of reach of children.

 

LADDER AND LIGHTING SAFETY

  • Always use three points of contact when climbing or descending ladders.
  • Replace any damaged lights that have frayed wires or loose connections.
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines on how many lighting sets can be plugged into one outlet.
  • Never attach light strings to walls with nails or staples and be sure keep them off the ground to avoid exposure to water.
  • Turn off all lights and decorations before bed or leaving the building or use automatic timers. Most deadly fires occur when people are asleep.
  • Avoid running cords under rugs or furniture; they could overheat and start a fire.
  • If using extension cords or power strips, consider hiring an electrician to add more outlets, overloaded cords are a common fire hazard.
  • All extension cords should be three pronged.

 

SMOKE ALARMS AND SPACE HEATER SAFETY

  • Ensure your home has working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level, including the basement. Test alarms regularly to be certain they are functioning correctly.
  • If using a space heater, always turn it off before leaving the room. Fires can start in seconds if the heater tips over or encounters combustible materials like blankets or curtains.

 

FIRE HAZARDS: Candles and Fireplaces

The holiday season often increases candle use, heightening the risk of fire. According to the NFPA, candles are responsible for half of all home fire incidents in December.

  • Keep candles out of reach of children and pets and place them on stable surfaces where they cannot be knocked over.
  • Store matches and lighters in a locked, high cabinet out of children’s reach.
  • Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative.
  • Never burn trees, wreaths, or wrapping paper in an open fireplace.
  • Always use a fireplace screen when a fire is burning.
  • Never leave candles or a burning fireplace unattended, especially when asleep or away from home.
  • Have your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned at least once a year.

 

These simple guidelines can help ensure a safe holiday season for you and your loved ones!