The holiday season is a time for celebration and joy, but it is also when the risk of fires and burn injuries increases.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas tree fires alone account for an average of 210 home fires per year in the United States, causing an average of six deaths, 16 injuries, and $17.5 million in property damage.
This blog will explore the common causes of fires and burn injuries during the holidays and offer tips to help you stay safe and prevent accidents.
Common Causes of Holiday Fires:
Christmas trees: Dry Christmas trees, especially those that have been up for a long time, can easily catch fire if placed too close to a heat source, such as a fireplace or radiator.
Candles: Candles are a popular way to create a festive atmosphere, but they also pose a risk of fire if they are not used responsibly. Keep candles away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
Cooking: The holiday season often involves a lot of cooking, which can increase the risk of fires if people are not careful. Keep an eye on your food while cooking, and never leave the stove or oven unattended.
Electrical decorations: Faulty or overloaded electrical decorations can also be a source of fires. Make sure to inspect your decorations before using them, and do not exceed the recommended wattage for your outlets.
What to Do if a Fire or Burn Injury Occurs?
Evacuate: If you discover a fire, your priority should be to get yourself and others out of the building as quickly as possible.
Call for help: Once you are safely out of the building, call 911 to report the fire and request assistance.
Treat burn injuries: If someone has suffered a burn, it is vital to cool the burn by running cool water over it for at least five minutes. Then, cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
How to reduce the risk of fires and burn injuries during the holiday season?
There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of fires and burn injuries during the holiday season:
Choose a fresh Christmas tree: A new tree is less likely to catch fire than a dry one. You can test the freshness of a tree by bending a needle; if it snaps, the tree is fresh. Make sure to keep the tree away from heat sources, such as radiators and fireplaces, and water it regularly to keep it hydrated.
Use LED lights: LED lights generate less heat than traditional incandescent lights, which makes them less of a fire hazard. Ensure to inspect your lights before using them, and do not exceed the recommended wattage for your outlets.
Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, including Christmas trees, curtains, and other decorations. Make sure to give these items plenty of space to prevent them from catching fire.
Install smoke alarms: Smoke alarms can help alert you to a fire, allowing you to evacuate and call for help. Make sure to test your smoke alarms regularly and replace the batteries as needed.
Be careful with candles: Candles are a popular way to create a festive atmosphere, but they also pose a risk of fire if they are not used responsibly. Keep candles away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
Pay attention while cooking: The holiday season often involves a lot of cooking, which can increase the risk of fires if people are not careful. Keep an eye on your food while cooking, and never leave the stove or oven unattended.
Follow proper electrical safety guidelines: Faulty or overloaded electrical decorations can also be a source of fires. Make sure to inspect your decorations before using them, and do not exceed the recommended wattage for your outlets.
Following these safety tips can help reduce the risk of fires and burn injuries during the holiday season and ensure that your celebrations are safe and enjoyable.
Conclusion:
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it is essential to be vigilant about fire safety to prevent accidents. By following the tips outlined in this blog, you can help ensure that your holiday season is a safe and enjoyable one.
If you face the consequences of fire burn injuries because of someone else’s negligence, feel free to seek compensation for all the damages and suffering. Houston car accident lawyers can ensure you get the appropriate compensation to make significant positives in the victim’s life. We are available at 346-233-1350.
