Winter Safety Tips

Don't let holiday safety hazards spoil your festivities

You may have survived burnt cookies and invading relatives, but other holiday hazards can still present dangers to your home. The following tips can help keep you and your home safe this holiday season:

Light the way to safety

Before doing anything else, check that your smoke detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries in them. Be sure all lighted candles are kept away from drapes or hanging decorations. Place candles in sturdy containers, and put tin foil or a china dish beneath them to keep wax drips from surfaces. Don't forget to extinguish the flames before leaving the room or going to bed. Also, keep candles out of the reach of children. When decorating the outside of your home, use outdoor-specific lights and extension cords. Don't use outdoor lights in your house, as outdoor lights often generate more heat than indoor lights. Keep an eye out for safety labels and lit cigarettes.

When buying plug-in electric toys for your child, make sure they have been labeled by a fire safety testing agency. Avoid purchasing toys that are potentially flammable. When entertaining guests who smoke, be sure to keep plenty of ashtrays around and make sure lit cigarettes and ashes haven't been left unattended.

Information provided by: