Holiday Tips

Lighting

• Choose lights made of fire-resistant materials.
  
• Keep candles away from any flammable material.
• Inspect light strings and replace damaged sections
• Use hooks or insulated staples when hanging lights. Do not use nails or tacks.
• Do not let children or pets touch electrical decorations.
• Never use a metallic tree with electrical decorations. Could pose a shock hazard.
• Make sure that outdoor lighting is rated for exterior use.
• Outdoor electrical decorations should be plugged into GFCI outlets.
• Turn off all lights when you are not at home and before you go to bed.

Decorations

• Tinsel should be made of plastic. Tree decorations should be flame resistant.
• Sharp or breakable decorations should be kept out of reach for children.
• Do not use decorations that resemble food. Children may be tempted to eat.

Holiday Entertaining

• Never leave items that are cooking unattended.
• Provide large deep ashtrays for guest that smoke.
• Keep matches and lighters in a safe location.
• Test all smoke alarms.
  

 
Trees

• Artificial tree should be labeled fire resistant.
• Live trees should be fresh, green, and have strong needles.
• Place the tree away from all heating sources.
• Trim the trunk of live trees for better water absorption.
• Water the tree regularly to slow the drying process.
• Make sure the tree is steady on the stand to avoid it tipping over.

Fireplaces

• Keep all decorations away from the fireplace.
• Do not burn and holiday trash in the fireplace.

 
Toys and Ornaments

• Purchase only age appropriate toys.
• Electric toys should be ul and fm approved.
• Do not buy toys with sharp edges or little parts for small children.
• Older ornaments should be kept out of reach as they may contain lead.

Children and Pets 

• Poinsettias are poisonous to humans and pets. They should be out of reach.
• Decorations should be kept 6 inches away from a child's reach.
• Avoid using tinsel, children may eat causing serious health problems or death.
• Ribbon and bows should be shorter than 7 inches to prevent strangulation.
• Children and pets should not be left unattended around decorations.
• Store items used to wrap presents out of a child's reach, such as scissors.
• Check wrapped gifts for decorations that pose a choking hazard.

Security

• If you have an alarm system, use it.
• If you are going to travel for the holidays, don't tell strangers.
• Have a neighbor or friend check on your home while you are away.