According to the U.S. Fire Administration, holiday fires claim the lives of over 400 Americans, injure 1,650 more and cause over $990 million in damage each year. In Canada, holiday fires are reported to contribute significantly to the 50,000 total residential fires that the Canadian Safety Association reports are fought annually.
"The number of home fires rises noticeably around the holiday season, largely due to such things as increased use of candles and light strands," said George Cruz, Managing Partner for PuroClean Professional Services.
Cruz says that by adhering to the following Dos and Don'ts, individuals can be on their way to having a safe holiday season:
When caring for your tree:
DO: Select a fresh tree with green needles that are hard to pull back from the branches. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.
DON'T: Place your tree near a heat source such as a fireplace or heat vent. Doing so will quickly dry out your tree and make it a fire hazard. Do not put up your tree too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood-burning stove.
When using holiday lights:
DO: Inspect your holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots and broken or cracked sockets before putting them up. Be sure to only use lights that have been certified by an approved testing laboratory.
DON'T: Overload electrical outlets by connecting too many strands of lights. Unless the directions indicate it is safe, do not link more than three strands. Never leave holiday lights unattended.
When using candles:
DO: Use stable candle holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Also be sure that the holders themselves are non-flammable.
DON'T: Place hanging candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Also, keep burning candles away from other decorations and wrapping paper. When leaving the house, make sure that all candles have been extinguished.
For any additional questions regarding property damage contributed by water, fire, smoke, or mold, contact PuroClean Professional Services at 866-944-PURO (7876).
www.PuroCleanProServices.com
