Deck the Halls Safely with Tips from the Clayton Fire Department

During the holiday season, home fires more than double with trees, decorations, and other seasonal items causing the most danger, according to the National Fire Protection Association. The Clayton Fire Department is committed to helping residents avoid becoming part of that statistic.

Community Risk Reduction Specialist Bryan Belvin has some friendly tips to help keep your home safe from holiday fire hazards:

Choose Fresh Trees – A fresh tree is less likely to catch fire. Look for a tree with green needles that don’t fall off easily. Regularly watering the tree will help keep it fresh.
Place Trees Away from Heat Sources – Keep trees away from heat sources like fireplaces, space heaters, or radiators. Heat can dry out the tree, increasing the risk of fire.
Inspect Lights Before Use – Check lights for broken bulbs, frayed wires, or other damage before hanging them. Replace any damaged lights and make sure they’re rated for indoor or outdoor use. Also, avoid overloading power strips or extension cords.
Turn Off Decorations When Sleeping or Away – Never leave lights or decorations on when leaving the house or going to bed. Unattended decorations are a frequent cause of fires during the holidays.
Use Candles Safely – Keep candles at least three feet away from anything flammable. Never leave candles unattended and always extinguish them before leaving the room.

“With so many distractions during the holiday season, it’s easy to overlook fire hazards,” said Belvin. “That’s why we’re here to remind everyone of the simple actions that can prevent a tragedy. Our goal is to make safety a priority, so residents can focus on what truly matters – celebrating with family and friends.”

The National Fire Protection Association reports holiday decorations are responsible for around 160 home fires annually, and one in every 32 Christmas tree fires results in a death. Meanwhile, electrical problems with lighting and equipment are responsible for about 40 percent of these fires.

“Imagine getting your home ready for the holidays, only to have a short circuit spark a fire,” said Belvin. “With a little extra attention to safety, this common risk can be easily avoided.”

For more information on holiday fire safety, visit townofclaytonnc.org/firesafety.