Fire prevention this holiday season

CITYnews halifax / By Rachel Morgan

It’s almost time for chestnuts roasting on an open fire, just make sure that fire is contained.

With a ramp up in home heating to beat the cold, oven and other kitchen appliances to cook a feast and candles to set the holiday mood, the risks of fires around the holidays increases.

“As you and your loved ones deck the halls over the holidays, be sure to keep fire safety in mind,” Doug MacKenzie, Nova Scotia’s Fire Marshal, said in a press release. “Christmas trees, holiday lights, and burning candles all come with additional fire risks. Staying mindful of these risks will help ensure a happy and safe holiday season for all.”

In fact, in 2023/2024, the leading category of identified fire causes was “misuse” which includes fires caused by cooking left unattended and improperly discarded ignition sources.

But with a few simple precautions, every one can have a safe and happy holiday.

Heating

The Fire Department reminds individuals that you should get your furnace serviced every year. For additional heat, remember to only plug in one heat-producing appliance – such as a space heater – into an electrical outlet at a time, to avoid an electrical fire.

(AP Photo/Thomas Kienzle, File)

Cooking

Despite the temptation to socialize the moment your holiday guest arrive, firefighters urge it is the safest to remain in the kitchen while cooking, especially if using oil or cooking at high temperature.

It is also important to keep anything that can burn at least one metre away from any heat source. Careful reminder to remove kitchen towels from the stove and keep flammable decorations out of the kitchen.

Never bring a barbeque or camp stove inside the house. While it may be tempting to have more cooking space, these appliances emit carbon monoxide which can have deadly consequences.

(FILE)

Decorations

Christmas trees, holiday garland, fake snow and more. Most holiday decorations are flammable. Where possible, residents are encouraged to use non-combustible decorations.

Candles are also important symbols for holidays such as Hanukkah and Kwanza. It is encouraged to use battery-operated candles as opposed to fire lit candles when possible. If left on or knocked over, a battery-lit candle has much less severe consequences.

For the tree itself, make sure it is not blocking any exists, turn off the holiday lights when not in use and never use outdoor lights or cords indoors.

(iStock)

Year-round reminders

With the increased risk of home fires in the winter months it is also the perfect time to make sure alarm systems are working properly. The Fire Department reminds homeowners to test smoke alarms frequently to ensure they are functioning properly. Carbon monoxide alarms should also be tested at least once a month. Finally it is strongly encouraged to have a qualified professional clean and inspect chimney and vents every year.