Staying Safe This Holiday Season
Township of Scotch Plains
The holidays are a great time for family and friends to gather for great food, drink and company. Not to put coal in the stocking here, but this is also the time of the year when there is a spectrum of hazards.
The Scotch Plains Fire Department offers tips to help everyone safely navigate through the season. One of the biggest potential hazards is a live Christmas tree. The tree needs to be kept alive and should be watered daily to make sure it does not dry out.
In addition, where the tree is placed is important. It should not be located near a heat source, such as a portable heater or radiator. The heat might help increase the possibility of the tree drying up and making it easier for it to catch fire.
One of the most common issues are overloaded outlets. Plugging everything into one outlet can cause the circuit to overload and start a fire.
Here are some more helpful suggestions:
- Check holiday lights and extension cords to ensure the lines are not frayed and there are no nicks. Replace anything that may not work properly.
- Use the proper electric extension cord for the job. Some cords are not rated to be used with intricate lights and decorations. Check the gauge.
- Follow manufacturer instructions and recommendations on how many light strands can be connected.
- When putting lights in high places, use clips instead of nails to hold the lines. Nails can damage the wires.
- If using a ladder to put up decorations, make it a two-person job and have a decoration spotter. The spotter can hold the ladder and assist the person who is decorating. And, if someone should fall, there’s a buddy to help.
- Don’t leave open flames – candles, menorahs or scented candles – unattended and place them on stable surfaces.
- If there are smokers visiting, ask them to smoke outside to alleviate a possible emissions source in the house.
- If people are visiting, make sure they know the exits, even if there is a back stairway or a side door.
- Don’t forget the basics: Make sure smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are working and up to date. Make sure the first aid kit is stocked.
