To ring in the holiday season, the American Red Cross has provided the following tips for families to keep holidays free of fire and accidents: Prevent holiday accidents
with these Red Cross tipsStar-Bulletin staff
1. Beware of holiday lighting: Take care when burning candles. Be sure they are kept away from decorations and other combustible materials. Don't leave children unattended in a room with lit candles, and always keep candles, as well as matches and lighters, out of reach of children. Never display lighted candles in windows or near exits.
2. Test tree trimmings: When decorating in lights, be sure to purchase only those labeled by a testing laboratory. Never use candles to decorate Christmas trees. For outside decorations, use only lights labeled for outdoor use. Don't overload electrical outlets, and always unplug all lights before leaving home or going to bed. Never put electrical lights on a metal Christmas tree.
3. Keep Christmas trees fresh: Choose a fresh Christmas tree and secure it in a sturdy stand. Place the tree away from heat sources and exits, and water it daily. If you purchase an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.
4. Inspect fireplaces: Have your chimney inspected by a professional and cleaned if necessary. Always use a sturdy screen, and burn only wood -- never paper, which may float out of the chimney and ignite a neighboring home. Never use flammable liquids in a fireplace. If you plan to hang stockings on your fireplace, do not use the fireplace for fires.
5. Install smoke detectors: Install at least one smoke detector on every level of your home, as well as in or near every sleeping area. Test your detectors monthly and change the batteries annually.
6. Have approved fire extinguishers available: Look at the fire extinguisher you have to ensure it is properly charged. Use the gauge or test button to check proper pressure. If the unit is low on pressure, damaged or corroded, replace it or have it professionally serviced. Get training from the fire department on how to use the fire extinguisher.
7. Cook with care: When cooking, do not wear loose-fitting clothing; hot burners can ignite it. Always turn pot handles in, and don't store items on the stovetop. Keep kitchen appliances clean and in good condition, and turn them off after use. Don't overload electrical outlets, and don't use appliances with frayed or cracked wires.
8. Prepare for holiday parties: Decorate only with flame-retardant or noncombustible materials. Avoid using candles during parties. If guests will be smoking, provide them with large, deep ashtrays and check them frequently. After the party, check inside and under upholstery and in trash cans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.
9. Designate a driver: When attending a party, always designate a non-drinking driver. If you are the host of a holiday gathering, be sure there are non-alcoholic beverages available for guests who are driving.
10. Buckle up: During the holiday months, people travel more than ever. Wearing a seat belt may prevent injury in a motor vehicle collision. Ensure that all passengers are also wearing safety belts and children are securely fastened into their car seats.
11. Prepare an emergency evacuation plan: Develop an escape plan with all household members and know at least two ways out of each room. Establish an outdoor location in front of your home where everyone will meet upon exiting.
12. Enroll in a first aid and CPR course: Although these tips can help prevent an emergency, it is also important to be prepared should an emergency situation arise. To enroll in a first aid or CPR course, contact your local Red Cross office for a schedule of upcoming courses.