Farmington Hills FD Says 'Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season'

From the Farmington Hills Fire Department: Holiday decorating is a fun way to bring families and friends together. But while you’re decking the halls, be aware that holiday decorations can increase the risk of fire, so keep safety and fire prevention in mind while you celebrate.

Christmas tree safety tips:

• Choose the freshest tree you can find by testing to see if needles stay put when you gently pull on a branch.
• After making a fresh cut on the trunk, place the tree in a stand and fill the water basin. Make sure to water your tree every day and keep electrical cords and lights away from the water.
• Place your tree at least three feet from heat registers, space heaters, and fireplaces.

A dry tree coming in contact with a flame can catch fire in fewer than 10 seconds, spreading flames quickly throughout your home. Click here to see the difference between a dry tree and a watered tree.

Holiday decoration safety tips:

• Choose only flame resistant or flame retardant decorations.
• Holiday lights should have a label from an approved testing laboratory, such as UL.
• Discard any light strands that are frayed or damaged.
• Only use extension cords for temporary purposes and don’t leave them unattended.
• Always use a surge protector for supplemental circuits.
• If you decorate with candles, keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable.
• Consider using battery-operated flameless candles that look, smell, and feel like the real thing.
• Keep fires in fireplaces manageable; don’t overload the fireplace and always use a screen or doors to keep sparks from escaping.
• Always dispose of ashes in a metal container with a secure cover and store it outside.

Safety tips brought to you by the Farmington Hills Fire Department and the U.S. Fire Administration. Learn more about holiday fire safety on the USFA website or call the Farmington Hills Fire Prevention Bureau at 248-871-2820.

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