While decking the halls with holiday cheer, make sure your festive decorations don’t invite tragedy.
ReadyWisconsin encourages you to keep fire safety in mind while celebrating this holiday season.
“Regardless of how you celebrate the holidays, it’s important to protect yourself and loved ones from possible dangers,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle. “Be aware of those risks as you get ready for the holidays and consider what to do in the event a fire does start.”
Candles are a popular decoration to use during the winter holiday season to give a gentle glow, but they are also a popular reason firefighters may come to your home.
U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,400 home fires that were started by candles between 2015-2019, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Candle fires peak in December, followed by January. Never leave a burning candle unattended and make sure they are kept at least 12 inches away from flammable materials.
Never place candles where children or pets could accidentally knock them over.
Instead of lighting real candles, consider using battery-operated flameless candles.
