Holiday Safety Tips

The year-end holiday season and the onset of the heating season is a prime time for home fires. Steamboat Springs Fire and Rescue would like to remind you of a few life saving tips this holiday season.

CHRISTMAS TREES
Choose a fresh Christmas tree. If you are not cutting your own Christmas tree, pick one that’s not shedding its needles. Place it in a deep, non-tip stand. Be sure your tree has water constantly. If you use an artificial tree, be sure that it is labeled fire-retardant. Make sure you set up your tree away from exits, fireplaces and any other heat sources.

SPACE HEATERS
Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from furniture, bedding, clothing, walls and other things that can burn.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS
If you are using holiday lights replace any sets that have cracked or frayed cords, or any loose connections. Make sure not to overload outlets or run extension cords under carpets, across doorways or under heaters. Make sure to unplug all decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed. Never use electric lights on a metal tree.

FIREPLACES
Have your chimney inspected at least once a year and cleaned if necessary. Always use a fire screen and burn only materials appropriate for a fireplace. Never burn trash or paper in a fireplace; burning paper can float up a chimney and onto your roof. Remove ashes in a metal container, and never store them in your home or on your deck.

CANDLES
If you’re using candles put them in a non-tip candleholder and do not burn candles near decorations. Keep candles well away from curtains; never put candles in windows or exits and never leave candles burning unattended or within reach of small children.

WATCH CHILDREN
Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach up high and preferably in a locked cabinet. Teach young children to stay away from candles, fireplaces and space heaters. Older children should be taught how to light candles or fireplace fires safely, and they should do so only under adult supervision.

SMOKE DETECTORS/ESCAPE PLAN
And most of all test your smoke detectors to make sure they are in good condition and practice your escape plan so every family member knows what to do in case of a fire, minutes can mean the difference between life and death.

The members of Steamboat Springs Fire-Rescue wish you and your family a fire safe holiday season.