Protecting Your Family During the Holidays

We really aren’t Grinches, and we know the holidays should be all about happy and cheerful subjects, but we only wish to inform you about some of the dangers that can occur during this time of year.

Did you know that U.S. firefighters respond to about 200 live Christmas tree fires per year? The good news is it’s trending down thanks to all the new realistic artificial trees folks are buying. Today, many artificial trees are also flame resistant. We just think it’s amazing that it wasn’t too long ago, and still occurs in some European countries, that live lighted candles were used to decorate a Christmas tree! But if you’re a fan of the real thing, and we love that fresh tree smell too, there are some things you can do to avert a potential fire.

About 25% of Christmas tree fires are the result of an electrical problem or heat source that is too close to the tree, according to the National Fire Protection Association. A dry Christmas tree can also be engulfed in flames in less than 10 seconds. Here are some other tips to know to keep you and your home safe:

• Review your lights and make sure they haven’t been damaged over the year from rodents. Throw away any that have cords that are cracked.
• Replace any bulbs that are broken or are out.
• Do not tuck extension cords under the tree skirt or other area rugs.
• Choose the freshest tree you can and water it daily.
• Unplug the lights when you go to bed.

We also encourage you to check your fire extinguisher and have it nearby. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, get one. Better yet, get an extra one to give as a gift! They can be recharged by a certified fire equipment dealer, like us. You should have one in the main rooms of your home – kitchen, living room and bedrooms, too.

So, remember to think about safety this holiday season. Protect yourself and your family and have a very Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy 2023. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. They’ve designed and installed thousands of fire protection and security systems for industrial, commercial, residential and special hazard clients. They work closely with architects and contractors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.