Holiday Season or House Fire Season?

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

For many, the winter holidays are the best time of the year. With family gatherings, light displays and gift exchanges, it’s easy to see why people love it.

But did you know that December is the most likely month to have a house fire?

This holiday season, we at SERVPRO want to make sure you and your loved ones stay safe. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the holidays will be filled with cheer instead of nightmares. 

1. Tree Safety
   
   According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year between 2014-2018. These fires caused an average of two deaths, 14 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage annually.
   
   It’s important to keep your tree far away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, space heaters or candles. It’s also necessary to water your tree frequently, as a fire burns more quickly on a dry tree than a well-watered tree.
   
   After Christmas, it’s best to get rid of your tree immediately, as there’s a greater chance of forgetting to water it once the holiday is over.
   
   
2. Dangerous Decorations
   
   While we often think of Christmas trees as the biggest cause for fires as the biggest cause for fires during the holiday season, decorations can actually be more hazardous.
   
   U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 770 home structure fires per year that began with decorations in 2014-2018, according to the NFPA. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian fire deaths, 30 civilian fire injuries and $11 million in direct property damage.
   
   You can avoid one of these incidents by choosing flame resistant or retardant decorations.
   
   When you’re putting up your lights, connect no more than three strands together, or a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. If you notice any strings of lights with worn or broken cords, make sure to replace them. 
   
   After the holidays are over, bring your lights inside to avoid a potential accident and to make your bulbs last longer.
   
   
3. Careful Cooking
   
   Besides Thanksgiving day, Christmas is the peak for home cooking fires. We know you don’t want to contribute to this statistic, so be sure to pay careful attention while you cook.
   
   If you haven’t replaced your smoke detectors in a long time, remember to check your batteries. Also, be aware of where your fire extinguisher is located.
   
   
4. Caution With Candles 
   
   Candles caused a staggering 21 house fires per day from 2014-2018.
   
   Candle fires take place most often in December, followed by January. Christmas is the peak day for candle fires with almost three times the daily average.
   
   When you light candles, make sure they’re far away from anything flammable. Sixty percent of candle fires start when the candle is close to furniture, mattresses, curtains or decoration.
   
   To reduce the risk of a fire, you can use battery-powered candles. 

If your home or business experiences fire or water damage, know that SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help" even during the holidays. Give us a call 24/7: 636-583-5200.