Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk of fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

DECK THE HALLS

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
• Be mindful of where your decorations are placed. More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are too close to a heat source.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting the maximum number of light strands.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords are not damaged.

O, CHRISTMAS TREE

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk.
• Ensure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
• Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

• If you’re hosting guests, test your smoke alarms before they arrive.
• Tell guests about your home fire escape plan.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.

SILENT NIGHT

• Blow out lit candles when you leave the room. Candles start more than one-third of home decoration fires.
• Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.