As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, many Boiseans turn to their fireplaces for heat and for comfort. But be careful, during the holidays, fires injure 2,600 people and cause $930 million in damage. A few simple steps can keep your family and your home safe this holiday season.
Smoke Alarms
Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms are the surest way to prevent fatalities. Some studies show that alarms decrease your chances of dying in a fire by 50%! Each level of your home should have at least one smoke detector near bedrooms and the kitchen. Be sure to test and clean alarms once a month, and change their batteries at least once a year. Life expectancy for a smoke alarm is approximately 10 years.
Fire Extinguishers
Install A-B-C fire extinguishers in strategic locations-near the kitchen, etc. Teach your family how to properly use them. Check them regularly for functionality and correct pressurization. If any leaks or corrosion is found, replace the extinguisher.
Decorations
Before you deck the halls with strings of lights, inspect them for frayed wires, gaps in the insulation, broken sockets, and extensive kinking or wear. Once you have determined they are safe, be safe with electrical outlets. Don’t link more than three strings of lights and plug them into a surge protector instead of straight into the wall socket.
Keep holiday candles and other dangerous decorations away from flammable materials and out of reach of children and pets.
If you are using an artificial tree, be sure it is flame retardant. Never use lit candles on a tree, whether it is artificial or real. And keep your tree away from heating sources like fireplaces or vents.
Never leave holiday lights on unattended. This goes for both inside and exterior decorative lights.
Have a Plan
Create an evacuation plan with your family. Designate safe exit routes from each room as well as a meeting place. Practice your plan often. Teach kids to stop, drop, and roll and how to stay low to the ground when leaving the home.
Ensure that all windows in your home open easily from the inside. Remove nails or excess paint that would make them difficult or impossible to open.
For more information and tips, please visit www.firesafety.gov.
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