The following is an article I found very helpful.
“As we near the holiday season, we need to remain vigilant of the increased potential for fire-related disasters in our professional and personal lives. Here are a few situations to consider:
Artificial electrical lighting may produce a great amount of heat, igniting nearby objects. Additionally, there may be electrical and tripping hazards to consider.
Space heaters may tip over or otherwise ignite nearby flammables. Always make sure your heater has a switch that will automatically turn it off if it tips. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip; plug it directly to the wall, with consideration for the wattage requirements of the heater.
Static electricity is often generated at higher levels during cold, dry weather. If you are fueling your vehicle, do not climb back into the vehicle to stay warm only to slide out of the car later, generating the spark that ignites your vehicle.
If you have fire extinguishers available at work, at home, or in your vehicle, be sure you know how to use it properly and that it is an appropriate type and size.
Candles are great for creating a holiday or romantic atmosphere at home, but the chance of torching your home, as well as the relationship, may not be worth the inherent risks.
Teach your children how to react during a fire event and have them exercise their actions as often as needed. Have a plan for the evacuation of those who may not be mobile, no matter their age.
If your neighbor is not as knowledgeable as you on fire safety, consider whether his house fire will soon become the concern of the entire neighborhood. We all love trees, but they are not always our friends during a fire.
Fires often start in the kitchen. With so much cooking during the holiday season, be sure the entire family knows what to do in case of a kitchen fire.
If you have a fireplace, be sure sparks are not allowed to pounce from the fire to your clothing or other nearby flammables.
Smokey the Bear is not known to make house calls, but there may be a reason why Santa Claus’ suit is colored fire-engine red.”
Be safe during this season; do not become another statistic.
