Whether it is careful candle
placement or checking the warning label
on the holiday lights, simple
safety steps can go a long way
in preventing fires and injuries this year.
* When purchasing an artificial tree,
DO look for the label "Fire Resistant."
Although this label does not
mean the tree won't catch fire,
it does indicate the tree is
more resistant to burning.
* When purchasing a live
tree, DO check for freshness.
A fresh tree is green, needles
are hard to pull from branches
and do not break when bent between your fingers.
The bottom of a fresh tree is sticky with
resin, and when tapped on the ground,
the tree should not lose many needles.
* When setting up a tree at home, DO place it
away from fireplaces, vents, and radiators.
Because heated rooms dry out live trees
rapidly, be sure to monitor water levels
and keep the stand filled with water.
* Indoors or outside, DO use only
lights that have been tested for safety
by a nationally-recognized testing
laboratory, such as UL or ETL/ITSNA.
Use only newer lights that have
thicker wiring and safety fuses
to prevent the wires from overheating.
* Check each set of lights, new or
old, for broken or cracked sockets,
frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.
Throw out damaged sets.
* When using lights outdoors, DO check labels to
be sure they have been certified for outdoor use
and only plug them into a
ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
* Keep burning candles within sight.
Extinguish all candles before you go to
bed, leave the room or leave the house.
* Keep lighted candles away from items that
can catch fire and burn easily, such as trees,
other evergreens, decorations,
curtains and furniture.