Christmas Tree Safety
🎄 Real Tree Safety
- Choose a fresh tree - needles should bend, not break
- Cut 1-2 inches off trunk before placing in stand
- Water daily - dry trees ignite in seconds
- Keep away from heat sources (fireplace, vents, heaters)
- Use lights rated for indoor use
- Turn off lights when leaving or sleeping
- Dispose of tree before it dries out
🚨 Dry Tree Danger
A dry Christmas tree can be fully engulfed in flames in under 30 seconds. Water your tree daily!
Candle Safety
Candles cause 40% of home decoration fires during the holidays.
🎄 Candle Rules
- Keep 12 inches from anything that burns
- Use sturdy, non-tip holders
- Never leave candles unattended
- Blow out when leaving room or going to bed
- Keep away from kids and pets
- Consider flameless LED candles
Holiday Cooking Safety
Thanksgiving is the peak day for cooking fires. Christmas and Christmas Eve follow closely.
🎄 Cooking Safety
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Keep kids and pets 3 feet from stove
- Don't cook if drowsy or after drinking alcohol
- Turn pot handles inward
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby
- If frying turkey: NEVER use indoors, keep away from structures
🚨 Turkey Fryer Dangers
Turkey fryers cause 5x more fires than other cooking equipment. Fry outdoors only, on flat surface, 10+ feet from buildings. Never overfill with oil.
Decoration & Light Safety
🎄 Safe Decorating
- Check lights for frayed wires or broken sockets
- Don't overload electrical outlets
- Use extension cords rated for intended use (indoor/outdoor)
- Don't connect more than 3 light strands
- Secure outdoor lights with clips, not nails
- Keep decorations away from heat sources