Did you know that December is the peak month for home candle fires? And that between 2015-2019, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,400 candle-related fires per year? During the same time period, they also responded to an average of 160 Christmas tree-related fires per year.
Does that mean we need to stop lighting candles and putting up Christmas trees? Bah humbug! We can still enjoy all of our favorite holiday candles and decorations, just as long as we take a few very simple steps to ensure that everyone is safe.
Candle Safety
Not only are candles a staple of celebration for several religions, they are also a popular gift idea. In fact, over a third of all candle sales take place over the holidays.
You can easily light a relaxing candle and drift away into a zen-like state. However, we never want to be so relaxed that we forget about the candle.
It’s always important to:
1. Keep lit candles at least a foot away from anything flammable. 3 out of every 5 candle fires start when things are too close to the candle.
2. Use only sturdy candle holders that won’t tip over, on an equally sturdy surface or table.
3. Be very careful lighting the candle, and stay mindful of long hair.
4. Never let the candle burn all the way down to the holder.
5. Keep candles, matches, and lighters out of the reach of children.
6. Never use a candle if oxygen tanks are used in the home.
Of course, you always want to blow out the candle before leaving the room, or leaving your home.
Decoration Safety
This sobering video shows exactly how quickly a Christmas tree fire can escalate beyond control.
However, it doesn’t need to be that way! You don’t need to scale back your decorations, you just need to scale up your safety.
For example:
1. Keep your tree and decorations 3 feet away from your heating source, whether it is a radiator, baseboard, space, or convection heater. More than 2 out of every 5 decoration-related fires happen when they are placed too close to a heat source.
2. Ensure your tree is never blocking any exits.
3. If you opt for a natural tree, ensure that it’s always got fresh water to keep the tree from drying out or dying.
4. Remember, there are indoor lights and outdoor lights. Don’t try to use indoor lights outside. They won’t last and they could be dangerous!
5. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections.
6. Only buy flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations.
7. Be sure to unplug all lights and blow out all candles before bedtime.
Remember, these tips apply to any place you’re decorating. If you’re dressing up the lobby of your condo building or office space, you still need to keep safety in mind!
A little bit of planning and forethought can go a long way to ensuring everyone is safe and healthy this holiday season.
