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SERVPROSERVPRO of Richland County
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
(803) 419-0470

Protect Your Home From Holiday Fire Hazards

12/4/2024 (Permalink)

By SERVPRO®

The holidays are a time for celebration, but they also bring increased risks for home fires. From festive decorations to hearty cooking, the elements that make the season bright can also create potential dangers if not handled with care. At SERVPRO® Team Cox, we want to help you enjoy the season safely by highlighting some of the most common holiday fire hazards and how to avoid them.

Holiday Fire Hazards to Watch

  1. Christmas Trees
  • Live Trees: A dry tree combined with holiday lights can become a fire hazard.
  • Artificial Trees: Though less likely to ignite, artificial trees made of synthetic materials can emit harmful fumes in a fire.

Prevention Tip: Keep live trees well-watered and ensure all trees are positioned away from heat sources. When selecting an artificial tree, look for flame-resistant labeling.

  1. Holiday Lights

Twinkling lights add festive charm, but worn wires, broken bulbs, or overloaded outlets can lead to fires.

Prevention Tip: Inspect all lights for damage before use. Avoid connecting too many strands together, and always use indoor and outdoor lights as directed.

  1. Candles and Open Flames

Nothing sets the mood like candles, but they are one of the most common culprits of holiday fires.

Prevention Tip: Opt for flameless candles for a safer glow. If using real candles, keep them away from flammable items and never leave them burning unattended.

  1. Cooking Hazards

Holiday meals often involve multitasking in a bustling kitchen, making unattended cooking a major fire risk.

Prevention Tip: Always stay in the kitchen while cooking, and keep flammable items like dish towels and packaging away from heat sources. A fire extinguisher within arm’s reach can be invaluable in emergencies.

  1. Heating Equipment

Cozy fireplaces and space heaters are winter staples, but they can cause fires if not used properly.

Prevention Tip: Have your chimney professionally cleaned each year, and keep space heaters at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, or decorations.

What to Do in Case of a Fire

If a fire does occur, acting quickly can minimize damage. SERVPRO® Team Cox specializes in fire damage restoration, providing everything from soot removal to structural repairs. Our team is available to help restore your property and peace of mind during this busy time of year.

Tips for a Safe and Festive Holiday

The holidays should be a time for laughter, connection, and joy—not dealing with preventable disasters. By recognizing fire risks and following safety precautions, you can keep your home safe while making the most of the season.

At SERVPRO® Team Cox, we’re committed to supporting our community with expert advice and trusted fire restoration services. From all of us, we wish you a safe and joyous holiday season. Call us at 803-419-0470.

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