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Check fire-safety list (twice) to keep the holidays merry

By LIANE SMITH (Contact)

Saturday, December 16, 2006

Did you turn out the Christmas lights?

It's that time of year again when cautionary tales of tinsel-laden trees engulfed in flames haunts the most apprehensive worriers.

"We usually do the miniature lights outside, because they are a lot safer," says Bonitan Ron Anderson.

Photo by CHUCK CURRY / Banner

Residents should never forget to unplug Christmas lights before leaving the house or going to bed.

Inside his home, an artificial tree eases his mind and his wife's allergies, but outside the home, the couple pay particular attention to the type of electrical plugs they use when decorating for the holiday.

Anderson uses ground fault circuit interrupters to prevent electrical shock. He particularly knows the dangers of holiday fire safety, as he is the chair of the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs Christmas tree drive.

"Here in the tent, we are fully inspected by the local fire inspector," Anderson said. "Probably, the biggest preventative measure we take is to water our trees daily. It keeps the fire danger down, and it keeps the trees healthy."

According to the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District, many people often overlook fire safety during this time of year.

"A holiday season never goes by that firefighters are not called to the scene of a house fire," said Debbi Redfield, public information officer.

The National Fire Protection Association's Life Safety Code also reminds commercial building occupants that fresh-cut Christmas trees cannot be set-up in buildings without sprinkler systems.

"Use your head," Deputy Chief Phil Kinsey said. "Use good sense."

Bonita Springs Fire Chief Dan Gourley suggests following these safety tips to help prevent fires this Christmas:

• Test all lights and cords for broken sockets or bare wires before decorating the tree or house. Place lights on a fireproof surface; leave them switched on for at least 15 minutes; and watch for any danger signs, such as smoke or melted wires. Use only lights that have an Underwriter's Laboratories or similar approval tag.

• Place your Christmas tree close to an electrical outlet to reduce the need to use extension cords. If you do use extension cords, use only heavy-duty cords. Never overload electrical sockets.

Photo by CHUCK CURRY / Banner

According to the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District, people often overlook fire safety as they decorate for the holidays. Following some basic safety guidelines can keep homes and property safe, officials say.

• If you choose a fresh tree, check the water level daily.

• If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire resistant.

• Place trees away from any heat source. Use cool-burning lights on fresh trees.

• Make sure your tree doesn't block any exit from your home. Always have two exits from each room in case of fire.

• Always unplug all lights before leaving the house or going to bed.

• Place small ornaments near the top of the tree. Children and pets may mistake ornaments for toys and can easily choke on small decorations.

• A large number of home fires begin in the kitchen. Never leave cooking unattended.

• If you host a party and have guests who smoke, use only heavy, deep ashtrays. Never empty ashtrays without letting them sit for several hours. Hot ashes emptied into a trash can may ignite a fire.

• Poinsettia, holly and mistletoe can be poisonous if ingested. Keep these away from children and pets.

• Never discard wrapping paper or a live tree in a fireplace or wood stove. These materials burn very hot and may start a chimney fire.

• Always use a screen or some type of protective cover when using a fireplace. Don't hang stockings or other decorations near a fireplace that will be used.

• Avoid operating space heaters for long periods of time. Electrical cords may overheat and start a fire.

• Never remove a battery from a smoke alarm to use for other purposes, such as for a toy or remote control.

For questions about fire safety, contact the Fire Prevention Division at the Bonita Springs Fire-Rescue Department at 949-6211.