The winter holiday season should be a joyous time of year. Colorful lights and decorations are a large part of celebrating. However, certain types of fires and injuries associated with decorating are all too common and can put a damper on holiday celebrations. “December is the peak month for home candle fires,” Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Julie Mix McPeak said. “Two out of five home decoration fires are started by candles. The Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office encourages Tennesseans to consider using flameless candles, which look and smell like real candles. However, if you do use traditional candles, keep them at least 12” away from anything that can burn, and remember to blow them out when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid using candles in the bedroom where one-third of U.S. candle fires begin or other areas where people may fall asleep. According to the state’s fire incident reporting system, candle-related fires in Tennessee during 2015 have already caused 3 fire deaths, 62 house fires, and over $3.7 million in property loss. ·Maintain Your Holiday Lights. Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. ·Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets. Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires – they should not be warm to the touch. ·Do Not Leave Holiday Lights on Unattended. Turn them off when you leave the house or go to bed.
Please be Cautious with Holiday Lights
