Ensuring Safety During the Festive Season: Tips for Safe Holiday Decorating
With the holiday season upon us, many are eager to adorn their homes with festive decorations. However, Wisconsin’s ReadyWisconsin emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety to ensure that holiday cheer doesn’t turn into a disaster.
“Holiday decorations should bring joy and not danger into people’s homes,” stated Greg Engle, Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator. He advises that a few precautionary steps can create a safe and joyful environment during the holidays.
Decorative lights and candles can enhance the festive atmosphere, but they also pose significant fire risks. The National Fire Protection Association notes that fire departments handle an average of 832 home decoration-related fires annually, with 145 fires originating from holiday trees. To mitigate these risks, consider the following safety guidelines:
- Keep live holiday trees hydrated and ensure artificial trees have a “Fire Resistant” label. Position trees at least three feet away from heat sources like heaters or fireplaces.
- Never leave candles unattended. Ensure they are in sight and away from flammable items. Extinguish them before exiting a room and opt for flameless candles when possible.
- Examine all string lights and electrical decorations before use. Replace any with damaged cords or loose connections and adhere to manufacturer guidelines regarding light strand connections.
- Avoid connecting more than three sets of incandescent lights and do not overload outlets or power strips.
- Use clips instead of nails for hanging lights to prevent cord damage.
- Turn off all lights on trees and other decorations before sleeping or leaving the house, and unplug extension cords when not in use.
In addition to fire safety, physical injuries during decorating are also a concern. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 160 injuries occur daily during the holiday season due to decorating, with falls accounting for nearly half. To reduce injury risks:
- Select a sturdy ladder of appropriate height and weight capacity.
- Wear shoes with good traction.
- Avoid standing on chairs or tables when decorating.
- Ensure outdoor sidewalks and pathways are clear of trip hazards, such as cords and clutter.
- Repair uneven walkways and steps both indoors and outdoors to prevent falls.
Festivities often include gatherings with loved ones. If hosting a holiday party, ensure fire safety by keeping the kitchen organized, removing decorations from around stoves and ovens, and having a fire extinguisher nearby. The National Fire Protection Association highlights Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as the second and third most common days for home cooking fires.
Ensure smoke alarms function correctly and replace batteries if needed. Smoke alarms should be present on every home level and tested monthly. Establish and practice an escape plan with your family, ensuring everyone knows two evacuation routes in case of a fire.
About ReadyWisconsin
ReadyWisconsin is an initiative by Wisconsin Emergency Management, part of the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Ready campaign, it aims to educate and equip Wisconsinites to handle emergencies, both natural and man-made. For more resources on emergency preparedness, visit readywisconsin.wi.gov or follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook, X, and Instagram for updates and tips.
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