As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. The winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire.
The Buncombe County Fire Marshal’s Office shares these tips for keeping your season merry, bright, and fire safe.
Holiday Decorating
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- Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame 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 do 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 stovetop.
Visit the Buncombe County website for additional tips.
Written by Buncombe County.