Festive Fire Safety for Your Home: How to Deck the Halls (and Avoid Fire Hazards!) with Fireco’s Expertise
Decorating your home for Christmas and spending time with friends and family are the most joyful traditions of the holiday season for many kiwi families – but while you’re spreading cheer, it’s important to prioritise fire and electrical safety to keep your celebrations safe.
Here are Fireco’s Twelve Tips of Christmas Fire Safety to help you deck the halls safely this festive season:
1. Check Christmas Lights Before Use
When it comes to Christmas decorations, we often tend to use the same set year after year for decades – which might be nice for ornaments and baubles, but not the best practice for lights! Before hanging up your Christmas lights and decorations, take the time to inspect them carefully. Check for any signs of faulty wiring, frayed cords, or damaged plugs, especially with older lights. Faulty lights are a common cause of fire emergencies during the holiday season, so replace or repair damaged items before use.
2. Switch to LED Lights
Speaking of Christmas lights, if you’re still using traditional incandescent bulbs, consider upgrading to LED lights. LEDs produce far less heat than the older style of bulbs, which significantly reduces the risk of overheating and fire. Plus, they’re energy-efficient and more durable, making them a better choice for your budget and safety.
3. Turn Lights Off When Unattended
It’s tempting to leave your lights on all night, but this can increase the risk of a fire while you sleep or are out of the house. Always turn off your Christmas lights before heading to bed or leaving home. If you’re prone to forgetfulness, consider using timers or smart plugs to make sure the lights are automatically turned off at a set time.
4. Avoid Overloading Power Outlets
Overloaded power outlets and tangled extension cords are not only unsightly but also a major fire hazard. Plugging too many decorations into one socket can cause overheating and electrical fires, so spread your decorations across multiple outlets, use surge protectors, and avoid running extension cords under rugs or carpets where they can quickly overheat.
5. Outdoor Décor Safety
If you’re decorating the outside of your home, be sure you’re using lights and decorations specifically designed for outdoor use. These are built to handle the elements and reduce the risk of damage or fire. Securely fasten decorations to prevent them from being dislodged by wind or rain, which could create hazards.
6. Position Your Christmas Tree Safely
If you have a natural tree, keep it well-watered to prevent it from drying out and becoming highly flammable. No matter natural or fake, be sure to position your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces and check it doesn’t block any exits in case of an emergency.
7. Be Cautious with Candles
Candles add a festive ambiance but can quickly become dangerous if left unattended. Place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces, and away from decorations or anything flammable. Better yet, opt for flameless LED candles for the same glow without the risk!
8. Avoid Overloading Power Boards
When using power boards for your lights and decorations, stick to one plug per socket. Overloading can lead to overheating and potential electrical fires. Invest in a power board with a built-in surge protector for added safety. When it comes to exterior decorations, make sure that any extension cords you’re using are suitable for outdoor use too.
9. Don’t Leave Cooking Unattended
Christmas dinners are a highlight of the season, but unfortunately cooking is one of the biggest causes of NZ house fires. Never leave cooking unattended, don’t drink and cook, and keep flammable items like tea towels and oven mitts away from stovetops.
10. Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy
It’s a good idea year-round to make sure your home is equipped with a working fire extinguisher and keep it easily accessible, especially in the kitchen. Familiarise yourself with how to use it and the kinds of fires you can use it on, so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
11. Test Smoke Alarms
Replace batteries if necessary, and make sure there’s a working smoke alarm in key areas of your home, such as near the kitchen and living room. If you have guests staying in usually unoccupied areas of your home, like guest rooms or sleep-outs, consider adding smoke alarms outside their sleeping areas.
.
12. Consider Fire Escape Plans
Take a few minutes to review your family’s fire escape plan. Check everyone knows the safest exits and designated meeting points. It might seem overly cautious, but it’s a good habit that’s especially important during the holiday season when decorations and extra guests might alter your home’s usual layout.
Spread Joy, Not Risks
By taking a few extra precautions, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free Christmas season. At Fireco, we’re here to help you stay fire-safe year-round. If you have questions or need fire safety equipment, be sure to reach out to us.
We wish you a merry and safe holiday season!
