Help, My Christmas Tree is on Fire!

The holiday season is time of family gatherings and reflection. It is also the time of year when many a house catches fire from faulty lighting. Everyone can appreciate the beauty of the lights around the tree and decorating the eves of the house but electrical shorts and cheap lights can turn a festival of lights into a raging and devastating inferno. This wonderful aspect of the holiday should be taken seriously and treated responsibly. Here are some tips to protecting your home and the homes of your neighbors during the holiday season.

1. Check all light strands for shorts and burned out bulbs before stringing them around the tree or outside. Look for cracks or breaks in the wire casing. If any exist, throw that strand away.

2. Be sure to use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors. There's a reason they are labeled as such. Read and follow directions on light packages carefully.

3. Don't leave lights on while you're away. If a blaze breaks out, no one is around to call in the fire to the fire department.

4. Don't leave lights on when sleeping. Many a fire has occurred while the homeowner was home in bed sleeping.

5. Check fire alarms and smoke detectors to make sure they are functioning properly. Replace batteries to ensure this first alert system is up to speed.

6. If using gas burners in the home, make sure to also have and check carbon monoxide detectors. It can save your life.

7. Don't leave small children unattended when lights are plugged in. This also applies to pets. Cats and dogs are notorious for chewing on plugs and cords.

8. Be sure to have a fire evacuation plan and practice a fire drill with your family.

9. If you have a live tree, water it often to keep it moist. A dry tree can catch fire easily.

10. Keep a fire extinguisher in your home and test it to make sure it is working properly.

11. Fire insurance! Have it up to date. Don't let an insurance policy lapse and if you don't have homeowners or renters insurance, take out a policy today. For as little as $15 dollars a month, you can ensure the financial ability to rebuild and begin again in the event a fire takes away your home and valuables.

12. If a fire does break out, don't be a hero! Get yourself and your loved ones out first, then call 911 immediately.

These simple tips can save your life. Prevention is always the first key. Remember to be alert and aware while enjoying the season. Here's hoping you have a safe Christmas and a very Happy New Year.