Holiday Safety Tips from the East Meadow Fire Department

Glistening lights and winter greenery are at the heart of the winter holiday season. Still, they also present certain risks for fire and injuries that can turn a happy time of year into a devastating one. According to fire safety experts, one-third of home-decoration fires are caused by candles, and two of every five happen because decorations are too close to a heat source.

The East Meadow Fire Department and the Board of Fire Commissioners work year-round to educate the community about potential hazards, especially during the holidays and offer the following safety tips to help everyone have a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

• Consider replacing traditional open-flame candles with battery-operated LED candles, which have the real ones’ look and feel.
• Choose holiday decorations that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
• Keep decorations and anything else that can burn away from heat sources such as candles, fireplaces, and heaters.
• Some holiday lights are intended for indoor or outdoor use only, so read the manufacturer’s warning for the proper application, and never use lighting labeled for indoor use outside.
• Replace any string of lights that have worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper number of light strands to connect, and do not connect more than recommended; doing so may cause a fire.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords.
• If using an electrical extension cord, make sure that it is approved for the type of use and load. Keep all electrical cords out of the way, so it doesn’t create a trip hazard.
• Use clips (rather than nails or staples) to hang lights, to avoid damaging the cords.
• Use care when hanging holiday lights outdoors: make sure ladders are on level ground and that you have an assistant.
• Avoid obstructing doors and windows with decorations; doing so may block egress in an emergency.

Live Christmas Tree Safety Tips

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Ensure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand daily.
• Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory, like UL.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect, and do not overload.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off, or unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

In case of a fire or medical emergency, call 516-542-0576.

For more safety tips or to learn about volunteer opportunities with the East Meadow Fire Department, visit www.eastmeadowfd.com.