Make fire prevention part of your Christmas and holiday tradition

Follow these tips to avoid any hazards during the festive season, writes Andrew Zvanitajs

Yorkregion.com
Dec. 14, 2021
Chief Andrew Zvanitajs

This time of year is filled with family and fun. It can be easy to get distracted and forget about fire prevention.

To help keep your holidays safe, here is what you can do to avoid some of the top fire hazards of the festive season.

Every second counts in a fire, so ensure holiday decorations are out of the way of foot traffic and do not block an exit, like a doorway or a window.

Also, use non-flammable or flame-retardant decorations, and keep them away from heat sources, like vents, fireplaces and heaters.

Most candle fires start when flammable objects are too close to a candle. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look and smell like the real thing.

If you’re going to use real candles, follow these tips:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended. Always extinguish them before leaving the room.

• Place candles in sturdy, burn-resistant holders that won’t tip over, and are big enough to collect dripping wax. For extra protection, cover the flame with a glass shade.

• Keep candles away from children and pets; out of bedrooms and away from holiday decor, especially Christmas trees.

A real tree or an artificial one can be a big debate for people celebrating Christmas. Whichever is chosen, place the tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other sources of heat, and keep these tips in mind:

• If purchasing a real tree, check for freshness. The needles should be green, hard to pull out and bend but do not break. A dry tree is a fire hazard.

• Use a tree stand that holds plenty of water. Trees can drink up to four litres of water per day, so check it daily and add fresh water as needed.

• If purchasing an artificial tree, look for one labelled as fire-resistant. While the tree could still catch on fire, it should resist burning and extinguish quickly.

To avoid an electrical fire, inspect decorative lights every year before using them. If the wiring is frayed or worn, replace the lights.

Here are a few more tips:

• Turn off lights when you leave the house and before you go to bed.

• Use CSA-approved lights both indoors and outdoor. Follow the manufacturers’ recommendations and check them periodically -- they should not be warm to the touch.

• Do not link more than three light strands together.

Make fire prevention part of your traditions, so you and your loved ones can celebrate safely.

To learn more about fire safety, visit vaughan.ca/fire.

On behalf of Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service, I wish everyone a happy holiday season and a wonderful new year.