Christmas Day is just around the corner and with it, all the excitement of family and friends gathered together to celebrate. We would like to share a few things about holiday safety from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.org) that can help keep the celebration going without having to pause and contact emergency services to make a visit to your home.
Holiday cooking: On Christmas Day in 2013, there was a 58 percent increase in the number of home cooking fires than on a typical day, and a 54 percent increase on Christmas Eve.
Christmas trees: Christmas tree fires aren’t common, but when they do occur, they’re much more likely to be deadly than most other fires. One of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires results in a death each year, compared to an annual average of one death per 144 total reported home fires.
Candles: December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top four days for home candle fires are New Year’s Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and Christmas Eve. In December, 11 percent of home candle fires began with decorations, compared to 4 percent the rest of the year.
Holiday decorations: Between 2009 and 2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 860 home fires that began with decorations (excluding Christmas trees). These fires caused an annual average of one civilian death, 41 injuries and $13.4 million in direct property damage.
Don’t let these numbers turn you all Bah Humbug! “Project Holiday” provides a wealth of simple fire safety tips, recommendations and other resources to help everyone enjoy a safe and festive holiday season.
The members of the Mt. Penn Fire Company would like to wish you and yours a safe and wonderful holiday season. Please enjoy these special days with your loved ones and stay safe!
