How to Prevent Your Candles and Holiday Decorations from Starting a Fire

Candles are responsible for more than half of the home decoration fires in December.¹
Most home candle fires take place on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve.

Instead of real candles, consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which mimic the look of real candles without the danger.²
If you do use real candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be knocked down easily.
Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn.³
Lit candles should not be placed in windows where a fire could start with blinds or curtains.
Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
Candles should be out of the reach of children and pets. Young children should never hold a lit candle. Consider providing battery-operated candles for children.
Adults should watch candles to make sure they’re safely away from flammable materials.
Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.

Windows and doors should be free of any obstructions such as decorations.
Nails should not be used to hang lights. Instead, use clips so cords aren’t damaged.⁴
Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
Outdoor electrical lights should be brought inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and keep them in good shape.⁵

Smoke alarms should be on every level of a home, including outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom.⁶
Alarms should be connected for the best protection, so when one sounds, they all sound.
Test all smoke alarms monthly by pushing the test button to make sure they’re still operational.
Replace smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
Plan and practice a home fire escape drill that includes two ways out of every room.
When entertaining guests, make sure they’re aware of escape routes.

*This post was originally published December 7, 2o20.

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