Holiday Decorating Safety Tips

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a Holiday Decoration Safety Tips Flyer and here are some tips to keep in mind as you decorate your home and business for the holidays:

Candles

  • Keep candles away from flammable decorations
  • Never leave them unattended
  • Always use non-flammable holders

Trimmings

  • Use non-combustible or flame-resistant materials
  • Wear gloves when applying spun glass/angel hair to avoid irritation
  • Avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food
  • Avoid glass or sharp, breakable ornaments

Fires

  • Remove all greens, paper or decorations from the fireplace area.
  • Make sure the flue is open
  • Use a screen in front of the fireplace at all times

Paper

  • Do not burn papers in the fireplace
  • Never place trimmings near open flames or electrical connections
  • Use materials labeled non-combustible or flame-resistant

Trees

  • Keep trees away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources.
  • Cut off two inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption
  • Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways
  • Use thin guy-wires to secure a large tree to walls or ceilings

Snow

  • Artificial snow sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled
  • To avoid injury, read instructions carefully

Lights

  • Check each strain for cracked sockets, frayed cords, or bare wires
  • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, houses, walls or other firm support to protect from wind damage
  • Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree

Follow these tips to enjoy a safe holiday season.