Watch Out for Fire-Starters

Candles and Fireplaces

Use of candles and fireplaces, combined with an increase in the amount of combustible, seasonal decorations in many homes during the holidays, means more risk for fire. The National Fire Protection Association reports that one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles and that two of every five decoration fires happen because the decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

• Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of children.
• Keep matches and lighters up high and out of reach for children in a locked cabinet.
• Use flameless, rather than lighted, candles near flammable objects.
• Don’t burn trees, wreaths or wrapping paper in the fireplace.
• Use a screen on the fireplace at all times when a fire is burning.
• Never leave candles or fireplaces burning unattended or when you are asleep.
• Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year.

Turkey Fryers

Be alert to the dangers if you’re thinking of celebrating the holidays by frying a turkey. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there have been 154 turkey-fryer related fires, burns or other injuries since 2004, with $5.2 million in property damage losses have resulted from these incidents.

NSC discourages the use of turkey fryers at home and urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments or consider using an oil-less turkey fryer. If you must fry your own turkey, follow all U.S. Fire Administration turkey fryer guidelines.

We wish you all a safe and happy holiday season from The Seay Group!