Preventing Holiday Fires: Home Safety Tips

Posted on: November 20, 2015 by Aegis General

As the holiday season rapidly approaches, Christmas trees are becoming a staple throughout homes nationwide. While lights and ornaments that adorn trees make it beautiful, there are certain risks that are associated with these decorations. This season, ensure your rented dwellings are protected by sharing these helpful tips to prevent fires. In addition, you should be equipped with a suitable Dwelling Fire Insurance Program.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states that while Christmas tree fires are infrequent, they are serious when they do occur. For example, from 2007-2011, fire departments responded to an average of 230 home fires caused by Christmas trees each year, resulting in numerous deaths, 22 injuries and $18.3 million in property damage, states the NFPA. In order to prevent these dangers, follow these tips.

1. When choosing a tree, fresh is best. Trees that have brown needles on them indicate the tree is drying out, which means it is more prone to fires.
2. The tree should be watered daily so it doesn’t dry out.
3. Lights and decorations should be flame-retardant. Before purchasing, ensure the packaging is labeled with certified safety materials by the Underwriters Laboratories or Intertek.
4. Double check lights for any frayed wires or broken bulbs before decorating the tree.
5. Keep trees at least three feet away from fireplaces, heaters, or any other heat source.
6. Place trees in a corner or away from doorways and exits in case of an emergency.
7. Once needles start falling from the tree, discard the tree as it is drying out.
8. Never leave Christmas tree lights on when no one is home or when everyone is asleep.
9. Never connect more than 3 light strands to the tree.
10. Ensure the fire alarm in the home is functioning properly prior to putting up a tree.

At Aegis General Insurance Agency, we strive to protect landlords nationwide against the potential perils of fires, both during and after the holidays. Our expertly crafted policies seek to safeguard against a variety of risk exposures to ensure a safe season. To learn more about our operation, contact us today at (866) 662-5752.

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Tagged: Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips Dwelling Fire Insurance Program Preventing Holiday Fires