Holiday Fire Safety Tips

Captain Jeff Corcoran, from the University of Cincinnati Department of Public Safety, took time out from the end-of-the-quarter crunch to compile a list of holiday fire safety tips.

"With the holidays approaching, the Department of Public Safety hopes you will keep fire safety in mind to ensure that the happy occasions ahead aren't spoiled by property destruction, injury or tragedy," said Corcoran. His advice follows:

Holiday Safety Tips From UC Public Safety

The holiday season and the colder weather that often accompanies it bring all types of fire hazards into our homes, workplaces and almost every building we enter between now and the New Year.

From blinking lights and other decorations to a warm fire in the fireplace, it's easy to see how safety precautions could be forgotten amid the sights and sounds of the holidays. But, by heeding a few important safety tips, we can enjoy the season and celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year's Eve without the fear of fire.

Here are some precautions you can take:

Keep all portable heaters at least three feet away from flammable items. Turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep. Use only UL listed portable heaters.

If you celebrate the holidays with a live Christmas tree at home, find a fresh one and give it water regularly. Also, keep the tree away from any heat sources or exits. If you use an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled as flame retardant.

Purchase only UL approved lights. Never use frayed or damaged strings or mix indoor or outdoor lights. Also, unplug lights before going to sleep each night or leaving your home or office.

Do not overload electrical circuits, such as wall outlets and extension cords. Use a UL listed circuit (power) strip with a circuit breaker. Never run extension cords under carpets or furniture.

Keep a tight-fitting screen on your fireplace and obtain a professional inspection annually before usage. Have your chimney cleaned on a regular basis.

Never burn holiday wrappings, a discarded Christmas tree or its branches in your fireplace. Dry Christmas trees burn very hot and extremely quick. The fire could ignite your carpet or nearby window coverings. Also, a Christmas tree is very oily and could damage your fireplace.

For additional information on fire safety planning, contact Public Safety's Fire Prevention unit at (513) 556-4992.