As a fire system maintenance company, Fire & Life Safety is our highest priority. We promise you can stay safe and still get festive with hot cocoa, cookies, and that weird cousin you’re forced to talk to once a year.

A recent report from the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) shows that fire departments respond to an average of 160 home structure fires that are started by Christmas trees each year. Additionally, U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 770 home structure fires each year that were started by decorations other than Christmas trees. 

It’s simple to enjoy everything the holiday season has to offer and still remain safety-conscious. Just take a few minutes to educate yourself with some fire prevention advice courtesy of DynaFire, your local fire system maintenance company.

Holiday Fire Hazards To Avoid: Tips From A Fire System Maintenance Company

Because, let’s hope you don’t have to relive the time your uncle had too many eggnogs and tried to reenact that one scene from Die Hard, then tripped and knocked the tree into the fireplace. 

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

If you choose a fresh Christmas tree over an artificial option, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of a Christmas tree fire in your home, because yes, this does happen and it’s more prevalent than you might think:

• Keep your tree well-watered and check the water in the stand every day
• Choose a tree that is green and healthy, with needles that don’t fall off in your hand
• Keep the tree away from any heat source, such as a space heater, fireplace, candles, or heat vents
• Turn off tree lights before leaving the house or going to sleep
• Dispose of the tree when it is dry, and don’t store it in your garage or near your house

Fireplace Safety

Even in the Sunshine State, there are always some chilly winter evenings that have you reaching for some extra logs for the fire. Just keep your fire extinguisher on-hand, and make sure to use a screen on your fireplace to prevent sparks and embers from flying out and landing on furniture or carpet. You should also have your chimney regularly maintained to avoid potential fire hazards.

Candle Safety

Candles are so much more than just that gift you give someone when you have no idea what else to buy – they’re also potential fire hazards. This is why we’re here to make sure you know the best way to burn them safely:

• Only burn a candle when you are in the room and can keep an eye on it
• Extinguish candles when you leave the room, leave your house, or go to sleep
• Keep candles on heat-resistant, stable surfaces that are out of reach of children and pets
• Keep candles away from other decor and objects, such as curtains, furniture, or trees

Holiday Light Safety

There’s nothing more festive than spending hours untangling last year’s Christmas lights. It’s just one of those heartwarming memories you keep with you forever. Here’s a pro tip: if you’re not sure about the lights, throw them away. And keep these in mind for the rest: 

• If you’re decorating outside, check that lights and extension cords are intended for outdoor use (yes, there’s a difference!)
• Check for any signs of damage, such as bare wires, loose connections, or broken sockets
• Keep extension cords clear of water or snow
• Don’t overload extension cords or electrical outlets

DynaFire Is The Fire System Maintenance Company For All Of Your Fire & Life Safety Needs

No matter the time of year, our team at DynaFire is ready and waiting to provide the fire protection services you need for your business property. Contact us today to learn more about the Fire & Life Safety services that we offer!