Holiday Season Safety Tips


December 1, 2020

Brandon, MB – As you deck the halls this Holiday Season, Brandon Fire & Emergency Services wishes to remind the public of a few important fire prevention tips.  Living Christmas trees are one of the most popular traditions of the season, but can also be one of the most dangerous when it comes to the risk of fire. By following these fire prevention tips, you can help keep your family safe during the holidays: 

 

CHRISTMAS TREES 

  • Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched or snap when bent.   

  • Before placing the tree in a sturdy stand, make a fresh cut two inches from the base of the trunk to allow the tree to absorb water.  Be sure to add water daily. 

  • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.  Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. 

 

HOLIDAY DECORATING 

  • Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant. 

  • Use lights listed by a qualified testing lab.  Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. 

  • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.  Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect. 

  • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.  Keep lit candles away from anything that can burn. 

 

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING 

  • Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan. 

  • Keep children and pets away from lit candles. 

  • Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet. 

  • Stay in the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop. 

  • Ask smokers to smoke outside and to keep smoking materials safely away from children. 

 

Before heading out or to bed, blow out lit candles and turn off all light strings and decorations. 

Brandon Fire & Emergency Services wishes you a safe and enjoyable holiday season!