Avoid preventable fires with these holiday tips

This demonstration shows how quickly a Christmas tree fire can spread. (File)

The holidays are a time for glowing lights, decorated trees, and cozy candlelight, but fire officials are reminding residents seasonal decorating should always be done with safety in mind.

Springwater Fire and Emergency Services is encouraging the community to take a few simple precautions to reduce the risk of fires during the holidays, noting many incidents this time of year are preventable with basic awareness and routine checks.

Lights

According to experts, holiday lights are often one of the first safety concerns. Fire officials advise residents to take the time to carefully inspect every strand of lights before putting them up, and to discard any that are frayed, cracked or damaged. Only lights and timers that are properly certified should be used, with marks such as CSA, ULC or ETL indicating they meet safety standards.

The department also recommends using LED lights whenever possible, because they stay cooler to the touch and use less energy.

Residents are reminded to turn lights off overnight or when leaving the house, to avoid overheating when lights are left on for extended periods. Officials say it’s important to be mindful that outdoor-rated lights should always be used for exterior decorating, as indoor lights are not designed to withstand winter conditions.

Tree

Fire officials also highlight the importance of proper Christmas tree care. The fire service says a dry tree can become a serious fire hazard in a matter of seconds.

Residents are encouraged to water their trees every day and to place them well away from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents and space heaters, which can cause trees to dry out more quickly.

The department advises using a sturdy tree stand that can hold enough water to keep the tree hydrated and reminds residents never to place lit candles on or near a tree.

They say certified lights should always be used on trees, and cords should not be overloaded.

Candles

Candle and decoration safety is another key focus this season. It may seem common knowledge, but too many people lose their homes and belongings because of accidental fire sparked by a simple candle.

According to Springwater Fire and Emergency Services, candles should be kept away from anything that can burn, including decorations, curtains and wrapping paper.

They add candles should always be placed in sturdy containers that can’t tip over and if you need to leave the room for any amount of time, blow them out. Candles should never be left unattended, even for a short time.

A safer, no-risk option is to use flameless candles where possible.

Springwater Fire & Emergency Services says taking a few extra minutes to decorate safely can help ensure the holiday season remains joyful and incident-free for everyone.