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Preventing Holiday Fires

11/23/2015 (Permalink)

The approaching holiday season brings traditions, parties, shopping, entertaining – and potential danger.

The latest statistics available from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show the holidays are a high-risk time for home fires. Thanksgiving Day sees almost a threefold increase in cooking-related fires.

“No one wants to think about the possibility of losing their home, and even more tragically, lives because of a fire during the holidays,” said Rick Isaacson, Executive Vice President of SERVPRO Industries, Inc. “But statistics show, it’s important to be aware of the increased risk seasonal decorating, entertaining and cooking can cause during the holidays.”

Isaacson reminds homeowners that prevention and common sense can help keep homes and families safe during the holidays and throughout the year.  Here are some sobering facts about holiday fires and tips to help keep your home, friends and family safe throughout the holiday season.

Holiday Decoration Fire Facts

  • 45% of all holiday fires involve candles; that number rises to 56% in December. Use flameless candles. If you do use traditional candles, burn them in sturdy candleholders, well 

    • Cooking Fire Facts

  • Cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day exceed the daily average by 272%. Supervise items on the stovetop. 58% of kitchen fires involve ranges; homes with electric cooktops have a higher risk of fire than homes with gas cooktops.
  • Keep flammable items – potholders, packaging, wrapping, wooden utensils, loose clothing – away from the stovetop. And, don’t let lack of sleep or alcohol consumption affect your ability to concentrate on preparing the meal.

    • “It only takes a moment’s distraction or carelessness to turn a holiday celebration into a catastrophe,” said Isaacson. “We hope these tips will be a reminder to families everywhere to make fire prevention a priority in their holiday preparations, so they can spend the season enjoying family and friends, not dealing with the aftermath of a fire.”

    For more information and tips, visit http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/seasonal/thanksgiving-safety

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