Christmas decorations - santa suits

Holiday decor could leave you in the cold

Even something as simple as putting up holiday decorations may have life-threatening consequences if you are not careful. Each year, 30 percent of all home fires and 35 percent of home fire deaths occur between November and January. An estimated 500 Christmas tree fires also cause more than 20 deaths, 117 injuries and $ 20 million in damage each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association. The Western Insurance Information Service offers homeowners a few decorating safety guidelines.

Tree Safety Tips:

  • Leave the tree outside in a bucket of water until time to decorate.
  • Trim about one inch from the bottom of the tree after purchase. This increases the tree's ability to absorb water.
  • Keep the tree away from the intense heat of stoves or heaters.
  • Water the tree daily. A dry tree is a deathtrap.
  • Turn off tree lights when you are not at home.
  • Avoid running an electric train under the tree. They can spark and ignite fires.
  • Avoid burning candles for extended periods of time in the same room as your tree.
  • ALWAYS make sure a parent or adult is present when and if candles or fires are lit.

Decorating Safety Tips:

  • Use non-flammable decorations.
  • Use the appropriate lights for your needs.
  • Don't use indoor lights outside or outdoor lights inside.
  • Make sure your lights are safety approved by either Factory Mutual (FM) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
  • Use a surge protector. This alleviates overloading the outlet and prevents damage from power surges.
  • Never use electrical lights on metal or aluminum trees.
  • Do not block exits with decorations. They may block access in the event of an emergency.