Metro East Sun

As the holiday season approaches, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall is urging caution when it comes to decorating with candles and lights. With families across the state decking their halls with festive décor, it is important to prioritize safety to prevent any fire-related incidents.

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall offers some essential tips to ensure a fire-safe holiday season. They recommend using flame-retardant or flame-resistant decorations and keeping lit candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire. It is crucial to keep children and pets away from lit candles and to extinguish them before going to bed or leaving the house.

Another important aspect to consider is the safety of your lights. The Office advises checking the rating of your lights to ensure they are suitable for either indoor or outdoor use, or both. It is also recommended to replace any worn light strands or broken cords and to turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

For those who prefer a real Christmas tree, it is essential to check water levels daily. According to the Office, a tree can drink up to two gallons of water on the first day. Additionally, it is crucial to keep the tree away from any heat source as it can quickly dry out, increasing the risk of a fire.

Before hosting any holiday gatherings, it is vital to ensure that your family and friends are familiar with your fire escape plan. This will help everyone stay safe in case of an emergency.

Remember, safety should always be a priority during the holiday season. For more information and tips on holiday decor safety, visit https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.20914.html.

In conclusion, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall provides valuable guidance on how to navigate holiday decor safety. By following these tips, families can enjoy a festive and fire-safe holiday season.

To find out more, go to this link: https://senatorericaharriss.com/navigating-holiday-decor-safety-tips-from-the-national-fire-protection-association/