Watch Children

Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach - up high and preferably in a locked cabinet.  Teach young children to stay away from candles, fireplaces, and space heaters.  Older children should be taught how to light candles or fireplace fires safely, and they should do so only under direct supervision.

 

Choose Toys Wisely

When buying presents for children, avoid those that could be highly flammable.  Make sure all electric toys have a fire safety label from an independent testing laboratory. Keep electric toys away from Christmas trees and paper decorations.

 

 

 

   Holiday Lights and Christmas Trees

Be sure all decorative lights, indoor and outdoor, bear the label of an independent testing laboratory.  Replace any light sets that have cracked or frayed cords or have loose connections.  Do not overload outlets or run extension cords under carpets, across doorways, on or under heaters, or pinched behind furniture.  Unplug all decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed.  Never use electric lights on a metal Christmas tree.

Choose a fresh Christmas tree.  If you are not cutting the tree yourself, pick one that is not shedding its needles.  Cut your Christmas tree trunk at an angle, and put it securely in a large, deep, non-tip stand.  Set up your tree way from exits, fireplaces, and heat sources.  Be sure your tree has water constantly.  If you use an artificial tree, be sure that it is labeled as being flame-retardant.

Fireplaces and Candles

Have your chimney inspected by a professional at least once a year and cleaned if necessary.  Always use a fire screen, and burn only materials appropriate for a fireplace.  never burn trash or paper in a fireplace; burning paper can flat up a chimney and onto your roof or into your yard.  Remove ashes in a metal container, and never store them in your home.

Always put candles in non-tip candleholders before you light them, and do not but candles near combustible decorations or displays.  Keep candles well away from curtains and other combustible articles, and never put candles in windows or near exits,  Never leave candles burring unattended or within the reach of small children.. Extinguish candles-wetting the wicks- before you leave a room or go to bed.

For a Safe Enjoyable Holiday, Follow These Fire Safety Tips

 

	Space Heaters Need Space
	Be Watchful of Dangers to Children
	Buy Only Safe Toys
	Choose a Fresh Tree
	Check Out Lights
	Take Care with Candles

 

Remember, keep space heaters at least 3 feet ( approximately 1 meter) away from furniture, bedding, clothing, walls and other things that can burn.  Always use the proper fuel for liquid-fuel space heaters, vent them, and refill them only in ventilated area when they are cool.  Make sure the type of heater you are using is legal in your area and has a label from a safety laboratory.