Harris County, Texas — The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office wants all residents to practice fire safety when decorating this holiday season. Candles, holiday decorations, and Christmas tress are not only beautiful, fun and part of the holiday season, but they also increase your fire risk.
“As you and your family prepare for this joyous time of year, we ask that you also think about fire safety,” said Harris County Fire Marshal Laurie L. Christensen. “By following a few fire safety precautions, like ensuring decorations are not placed too close to a heat source and blowing out candles when you leave a room, you will protect your family from fire and provide a happy and fire-safe holiday season.”
The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office encourages everyone to follow these holiday fire safety tips:
- Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
- Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
- Water live Christmas trees daily to ensure they do not dry out.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Following these fire safety tips can protect your family and friends from fire. The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office also recommends testing your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they work properly. Having an escape plan and practicing that plan is also imperative for your family’s safety. If a fire breaks out, you only have minutes to escape.
Additional Resources
Winter Holiday Safety
Christmas Tree Safety
Christmas Tree Fire Video