Tips for a Safe, Merry Holiday Season

This holiday season, it’s important to keep your family protected and ensure a joyful time for all. While it may not be the most cheerful topic, we want to inform you about potential dangers that can arise during this festive time of year. Did you know that U.S. firefighters respond to approximately 200 live Christmas tree fires annually? Fortunately, with the rise in popularity of artificial trees, this number is decreasing. Many artificial trees are now flame resistant, which is a great improvement. It’s astonishing to think that not long ago, and still in some European countries, people used real candles to decorate their Christmas trees!

If you’re a fan of the real thing and love the fresh tree smell, there are ways to reduce the risk of fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, around 25% of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical issues or heat sources too close to the tree. A dry tree can become engulfed in flames in less than 10 seconds. Here are some important tips to keep you and your home safe:

• Inspect your lights for any damage caused by rodents throughout the year and discard any with cracked cords.
• Replace broken or burned out bulbs.
• Avoid tucking extension cords under the tree skirt or area rugs.
• Choose the freshest tree possible and water it daily.
• Remember to unplug the lights before going to bed.

Additionally, we strongly encourage you to check your fire extinguisher and have it easily accessible. If you don’t have one, consider getting one or even gifting one to someone else. Fire extinguishers can be recharged by certified fire equipment dealers, like us. It’s a good idea to have one in the main rooms of your home, such as the kitchen, living room and bedrooms.

Above all, prioritize safety this holiday season. Protect yourself and your loved ones, and may you have a very Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year in 2024. 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. 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.