-: Nov 23, 2025 / Melaina Lewis

Holiday Fire Safety Tips & Prevention

1. Safe Use of Space Heaters

Space heaters are one of the leading causes of winter home fires. Protect your household by using them responsibly:

  • Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn (furniture, curtains, bedding).

  • Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet—never into an extension cord.

  • Turn off heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep.

  • Choose models with automatic tip-over and overheat shutoff features.


2. Christmas Tree Fire Prevention

Christmas trees—especially live ones—can ignite quickly if not properly cared for.

  • Choose a fresh tree and water it daily.

  • Keep trees away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, and vents.

  • Inspect tree lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before use.

  • Never leave tree lights on when you’re asleep or away from home.

  • Properly dispose of the tree when it becomes dry and brittle.


3. Cooking Safety Reminders

Cooking is the number one cause of home fires year-round, and holiday gatherings only increase the risk.

  • Stay in the kitchen when cooking—“stand by your pan.”

  • Keep flammable items like paper towels, oven mitts, and utensils away from stovetops.

  • Turn pot handles inward to avoid spills and burns.

  • If a small grease fire occurs, smother it with a lid—never use water.

  • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from cooking areas.


4. Candle & Decorative Light Safety

Holiday decorations create a festive atmosphere, but they also increase fire hazards if not handled safely.

  • Use battery-operated candles whenever possible.

  • Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.

  • Place candles on sturdy surfaces and away from pets and children.

  • Inspect decorative lights for damage and replace faulty strands.

  • Avoid overloading outlets and use UL-listed lights and power strips.


Winter Heating Safety

As temperatures drop, heating equipment becomes a leading source of home fires. Now is the perfect time to ensure your systems are safe.

5. Furnace Maintenance

  • Have your furnace professionally inspected and serviced each year.

  • Keep the area around your furnace clear of boxes, storage, and flammable materials.

  • Replace filters regularly to keep systems running safely and efficiently.


6. Fireplace & Chimney Cleanings

Fireplaces can be a cozy source of warmth—but only when properly maintained.

  • Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

  • Use a sturdy screen or glass doors to prevent sparks from escaping.

  • Burn only dry, seasoned wood.

  • Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container stored outdoors.


Stay Safe and Enjoy the Season

OWL is proud to serve our community throughout the year—and especially during the busy holiday season. By following these simple safety tips, you can help protect your home and ensure a joyful, fire-safe winter for your family.

Posted in: Community Resources