Tips to prevent holiday season fires

Members of the town of Superior Volunteer Fire Department urge residents to follow these fire safety tips for a safe holiday season.

Decorations and lights

Check all your illuminated decorations to make sure they are in good condition. Light strands that have frayed or cracked wires should be thrown away and replaced with UL approved devices. Do not place indoor cords under carpets or throw rugs. Outside lights should be approved for outdoor use. Never use indoor lights outside. Never use more than the listed amount of light sets per extension cord. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and do not use more than the number of light sets recommended in one circuit. Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. Always turn off decorative lights when leaving your home.

Trees

Artificial trees should have a listing label. Some unlabeled plastic trees can burn extremely fast. If using a live tree, keep it watered frequently. The needles should not come off in your hand. The tree should be deep green in color and the trunk should be sticky with sap. Place your tree away from heat sources like fire places.

Candles

When using candles always make sure candles are not close to combustible materials such as curtains. Make sure all candles are out before leaving the house.

Fireplaces

Make sure your fireplace is in good working order and the chimney is free from creosote build-up. Christmas wrappings and tree branches should not be burned in the fireplace. Their intense and rapid burning can cause chimney fires and flames to extend out of the firebox into your home.

Space heaters

Never use heaters around water. Water increases the chances of electric shock. Unplug your heater when it is not in use. Don't use your heater as a dryer. Keep clothing and other combustible materials at least 3 feet from your heater. Don't place a heater in a doorway, hall or walkway where it is likely to get bumped. Don't leave space heaters unattended.

Smoke alarms

As always, check your smoke alarms and make sure they are in good working order. Change your batteries twice a year.

We wish you a safe and happy holiday season

If you have any questions Please contact you local Fire Department or visit http://www.usfa.fema.gov/ for more helpful fire prevention tips.

Tags: douglas county, community, health, superior