For many of us, Christmas is the best time of the year. There are decorations, presents, parties, music and spending family & friends. The Holiday Season can truly feel magical. Most of us have decorated Christmas trees in our homes, extra indoor and outdoor lights, a holiday scented candle burning and lots of extra time in the kitchen as meals and desserts are prepared for loved ones.

As a chemical company, safety is always our number one priority. We want to make sure that our employees go home in the same condition they came to work. We also want our employees to be safe when they are home as well. Safety in the home this time of year may not be to the forefront of people’s minds when they are trying to relax and enjoy themselves, but it is important to address it as the festive season means a lot of activity that is out of the norm in the household. Remember these safety tips so that your family stay safe during the most wonderful time of the year.

Fire Hazards

Many holiday decorating ideas involve very combustible materials such as tissue paper and flammable cottons. These materials should be avoided in your home if possible. If they cannot be avoided then you should keep these materials away from bare electrical wires, fireplaces, or candles so that they do not become ignited easily. While cooking meals, be sure to stay in the kitchen while cooking. Unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires (NFPA). If possible, switch candles to battery operated candles. Open flames with candles can catch decorations on fire. In order to be prepared, you also should have an emergency fire plan in place for you and your loved ones. Having a smoke detector in each room of your home can be one of the best measures to prevent being hurt in a house fire. After this, you must also have a plan of action. Make sure everyone who will be in your home over the holiday season knows where to meet and what to do if there is a fire. Also, make sure you have at least one fire extinguisher in your home to combat small house fires.

Christmas Trees

Christmas trees are often the centerpiece of many Christmas events. They hold decorative and nostalgic ornaments that bring joy and happiness to your family. However, Christmas trees may also bring danger to your household. Real Christmas trees are at risk of catching fire far more easily than artificial trees. If you have a real Christmas tree make sure that you choose a live tree that has green needles that do not break easily. The tree should also be sticky with resin and only have a few loose needles. Be sure to keep your live tree fresh by watering daily. Dry trees can be a serious fire hazard. Real trees and artificial trees should be kept away from vents, radiators, fireplaces, and candles. Plus, for both types of trees you should only use flame-resistant ornaments.

Electrical Safety

Christmas decorations often light up or have an electrical component. Be sure to inspect electrical decorations for any damage before use. Cracked or damaged sockets, loose or bare wires and loose connections can cause a serious shock or start a fire. It is also important not to overload your electrical outlets and never connect more than 3 strands of incandescent lights together. Not only can it blow a fuse, but it can also start a fire.