Read the full National Fire Protection Association document here

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Holiday decorating 

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are fame resistant or fame retardant. 
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn. 
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. 
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords to not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

Holiday Entertaining

• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stove top.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children to do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.