Red Cross Offers Seven Fire Safety Tips for the Holidays

By LIZ TAURASI (Patch Staff)

WILMINGTON, MA -- As you decorate and make plans to entertain guests this holiday season, the American Red Cross reminds people to follow safety measures to ensure loved ones and homes are safe from the threat of fire.

“During the holiday season, many home fires are caused by something that can catch fire being too close to a candle, or by leaving food unattended that is cooking,” said Martha Carlos, chief communications officer, American Red Cross of Chicago & Northern Illinois. “Candles and kitchen fires pose an increased threat to households this time of year, and that’s why we’re reminding people of a few simple steps they can take to have a safe holiday.”

The Red Cross offers seven fire safety tips to remember as you light holiday candles, string up lights, and gather with family and friends.

• Keep children, pets and decorations away from lit candles.

• Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer as a reminder the stove or oven is on.

• Choose decorations and artificial trees that are flame resistant or flame retardant. Place the tree away from heat sources and exits.

• Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended. Install smoke alarms.

• If hanging stockings on the fireplace, do not use the fireplace for fires.

• Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet from anything that gets hot, such as sources of heat or stoves.

• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini light sets and the total number of bulbs to 50.

Learn how to keep your family safe through the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign.

This holiday season, you can also help the Red Cross reduce home fire related deaths and injuries in at-risk communities by working with volunteers, local fire departments and community partners to install smoke alarms and provide fire safety education and training.

Find giving options in the 2015 Holiday Gift Catalog.