Holiday Safety Tips From Montclair Fire Department: Candles, Lights, Trees

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The holidays are a time for warmth, light and celebration – and a few simple precautions can help keep them this way, Montclair fire officials say.

The Montclair Fire Department recently issued some holiday safety reminders for local residents. See their suggestions below.

“A little prevention goes a long way,” officials said. “Stay safe and enjoy a happy, healthy holiday season!”

Candle Safety

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn
• Use stable holders and place candles where they can’t be knocked over
• Consider battery-operated flameless candles that look, smell, and feel like the real thing

Holiday Lights

• Inspect lights every year before decorating
• Discard any strands with frayed or pinched wires
• Follow manufacturer instructions for how many strands can be connected

Christmas Tree Safety

• Water your tree daily—dry trees burn hot and fast
• Keep your tree at least 3 feet from fireplaces, heaters, vents, and candles
• Make sure your tree does not block exits
• Dispose of your tree after Christmas or as soon as it becomes dry

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.