12/04/2018- While you’re decking the halls this season, ReadyWisconsin has some tips to help keep those Christmas decorations from becoming a Christmas disaster. Because both live and artificial trees can ignite into a large blaze in just a matter of seconds, it’s important to place them away from any heat source like a fireplace or heat vent and keep live trees watered. Andrew Beckett with ReadyWisconsin says you should also be checking those strands of Christmas lights for signs of damage.
And, if you’re out to make your home the brightest on the block, Beckett says to watch how many electrical cords you’re connecting.
The use of candles is always popular during the holiday season and most home fires caused by candles occur on Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Day, so people are reminded to never leave them unattended and keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Beckett says it’s also a good idea to check your home’s smoke alarms and review your emergency escape plan with your family should anything go wrong.