Festive celebrations, flickering lights, and winter decorations are hallmarks of the holiday season. That also means a great risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a fire-safe holiday season.

HOLIDAY LIGHT SAFETY

• If you’re using old lights, check the wires to make sure there are no signs of fraying or
  cracking.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.

HOLIDAY TREE SAFETY

• Keep your tree at least three feet away from all heat sources (like fireplaces,
  radiators, and heat vents).
• Choose a sturdy stand so the tree will not tip over.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Once the holiday season is over you should get rid of a real tree as soon as possible.

HOLIDAY DECORATING

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or
  flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Trim wicks to a quarter of an inch before you light them. Only let candles burn for one hour for every inch of diameter so the wax can melt evenly.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.

More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles.
More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

BLOW OUT lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
TURN OFF all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.