SJRFD Issuing Fire Safety Tips

The St. John’s Regional Fire Department is issuing fire safety tips for this holiday season.

Dry Christmas trees, colourful decorations and wrapped presents are all extra fuel for a potential fire in your home.

The following safety tips will ensure that both you and your families will have an enjoyable and fire-safe holiday season.

Christmas Trees

• When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. The butt of the tree trunk should be sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, needles should not fall off. Cut at least two inches off the bottom of the tree before placing it in water.

• Add water to the tree stand daily.

• Artificial trees should bear a “fire resistant” label, and if they are prelit, ensure it bears the label of a certification testing agency, such as ULC.

Lights

• Use lights according to their certified use. Some lights can only be used indoors, while others can only be used outside.

• Replace any string of lights that may have broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the maximum number of light strands to connect together.

• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

Decorations

• Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree.

• Place candles in non-combustible, non-tip candle holders and ensure they are well away from the Christmas tree and other combustible materials.

• Do not block doors with decorations as this could impede your exit in the event of a fire.

• Never leave lit candles unattended and ensure they are always out of the reach of children.

• Matches are not toys; keep them out of the reach of children.

Fireplaces

• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a certified professional at least once a year.

• Always use a fire screen, and burn only dry, seasoned wood.

• Never use flammable liquids in a fireplace.

• When removing ashes from your fireplace, place them in a metal container, with a metal lid. Put them outside, at least 10 feet away from your home or any structure.

Electrical Outlets

• Never overload wall outlets even for short durations.

• Ensure extension cords bear the label of a certified testing agency, such as ULC, and ensure they are rated for what you intend to use them for.

• Discard any cords having exposed or frayed wiring.

• Insert plugs fully into outlets. Poor contact may cause overheating or shock.

• To avoid possible overheating, do not coil or bunch an extension cord which is in use and do not run it under carpet or rugs.