Keep Your Family Safe
Your West Chester Township Fire Department wants you to have a happy and safe holiday season. Extra care around the home can prevent tragedy and help you enjoy this wonderful time of year.
Residential fires increase during the holidays. A recent National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) study showed an average of nearly 330,000 residential fires in our country each year, causing an average of 2,600 civilian deaths, 10,770 injuries and $8.9 billion in property damage.
Nearly half of the residential fires (49%) are caused by cooking. Heating equipment (20%) is the next leading cause, followed by electrical distribution and lighting equipment (9%), and smoking materials (5%).
The holiday season brings increased fire risk with hazards like more candles, fairy lights, and electrical gadgets. In December, 46 percent of home decoration fires are started by candles.
Many of these incidents are preventable. Check out the 12 Days of Fire Safety below for tips on how to keep your home and loved ones safe this holiday season.
12 Days of Fire Safety
Safe Decorations -- Inspect holiday lights and decorations and remove any that are damaged or have frayed wires. Plug exterior lights into a Residential Current Device, and avoid daisy-chaining and overloading circuits.
Candle Safety -- Keep candles away from decorations and curtains. Do not use candles in bedrooms or anywhere that people may fall asleep. Never leave candles unattended. Consider LED candles, which are a safer option with the same warm glow and flicker.
Christmas Trees -- Keep real trees away from heat sources and water them daily to prevent fires. If you use an artificial tree, check labels for the words “fire retardant” and look for safety certification from NFPA or UL.
Cooking Caution -- Most house fires start in the kitchen. Stay alert while cooking. Don’t leave stoves unattended. Drink in moderation when cooking and hosting parties for friends and families.
Check on Loved Ones -- Make sure your loved ones are practicing fire safety during the holidays. Ensure all electrical cords are intact and throw away damaged light strands. Keep a safe distance between decorations and fireplaces. Be sure your loved ones have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Also, make sure they have access to a phone and can reach out in an emergency.
Fireplace Safety -- Use a guard to contain embers and only use suitable fuel sources. Be sure your chimney is thoroughly swept. Employ a carbon monoxide alarm. Keep a safe distance between decorations and your fireplace.
Test Your Alarms -- Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working, and change your batteries twice a year. Have at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home. Never remove batteries from an alarm.
Escape Routes -- Keep exits clear of clutter, decorations, and gifts. Plan and practice your escape plan with family and friends.
Buy Safe Gifts -- Look for safety certification labels on products from reputable retailers and online marketplaces. When it comes to lithium-ion batteries, only use manufacturer-provided chargers and never charge devices overnight.
Night-time Routine -- Turn off decorations and appliances before bed, and never charge devices while sleeping. Extinguish any candles and make sure the fireplace is cold.
Secure Your Home When Away -- Switch off appliances and unplug decorations before going out or traveling. Have a neighbor keep an eye on your house.
Smoking Safety -- Smoke outdoors, use ashtrays, and keep away from flammable materials.