With cooling temperatures, indoor and outdoor decorating, and increased cooking, everyone should take steps to ensure their home is safe.
“Each year during the holiday season the fire department sees an increase in fires due to a wide variety of reasons,” said CCFR Operations Chief Lisa Boyett. “Some fires are related to people heating their homes, displaying decorations, or cooking for a holiday meal, making it important for Camden County citizens to pay close attention to their activities during the season.”
To avoid fires, injuries, or unexpected hospital visits, emergency personnel recommend following these tips:
- Heaters need space. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment. Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets and never into an extension cord or power strip.
- Candles should be at least one foot away from walls, curtains, or flammable materials. Never leave a candle unattended; ensure that all candles are extinguished before leaving a room.
- Make sure to water live trees daily and unplug electrical cords each night. If using an artificial tree, ensure that it is flame-resistant.
- Do not overload electric outlets. Check electrical cords often. Replace cracked, damaged, and loose electrical or extension cords. Do not try to repair them.
- Keep decorations and plants out of reach of small children and pets. Have a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared.
- The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. Turn off the burner if you leave the kitchen for any reason.
- If your holiday plans include deep frying a turkey, make sure to place the fryer on a solid, flat surface away from your home. Ensure that children and pets do not come in contact with the fryer. Monitor the fryer at all times and after cooking, allow time for the fryer and grease to cool.
“In case of an emergency, call 911,” said CCFR Chief Terry Smith. “Please do not try to handle it yourself. We are here to keep your family and home safe.”