How many times have we seen in the media such sad stories about house fires caused by faulty Christmas decorations? Some of these tragedies could have been avoided if people knew how to prevent disasters before they happen. As mothers, we are responsible for the safety of our families.
To help things along, I'm going to share with you some safety tips I found in a community handbook published by the Fire Department in Port Moody B.C. (let's give credit where it's due).
Give Fire Safe Gifts
Electric toys should carry testing agency label
Gasoline or other flammable liquid-operated toys are risky for young children
Avoid highly combustible toys and dolls
Wrappings
Pick them up while opening gifts
Don't "bonfire" them in a fireplace
Use a covered trash container
Don't give fire a place to start
Your Tree
A dried-out evergreen tree is a fire hazard. Here's vital advice:
Buy a freshly cut tree. Beware of any tree with brittle or shedding needles.
If storing, keep in a cool place with the tree base set in water. Be sure to cut off at least 1" of the tree trunk to help water absorption.
Set up tree in sturdy, non-tip tree stand containing water.
Consider adding guy lines to support a big tree or when displayed outdoors.
Keep tree away from heat (radiators, hot air ducts, TV set, fireplace, etc)
Never block exits.
Remember, your tree gets thirsty. Check water level daily. When water absorption stops......discard the tree.
Don't rely on self-applied aerosol sprays or other chemical treatment to protect your tree from fire.
Buying An Artificial Tree
Plastic: Check for the fire-retardant label.
Metallic: Use only indirect spotlighting. Don't hang lighting sets on a metallic tree---it is an electric shock hazard.
Trees with built-in electrical system should carry label of testing agency.
Lighting
Inspect last year's lights closely--for worn insulation, loose bulb sockets, broken plugs. If damaged, don't risk it. Replace them!
Buy lighting sets approved by testing agency. Plug into no larger than 15 ampere circuits.
Use extension cords sparingly. Prevent cord damage......do NOT place cord near foot traffic, through doorways or under rugs.
Indoor electric equipment is NOT safe outdoors. For outdoors, use only approved outdoor lighting sets, extension cords and fixtures.
Decorations
Use flame-retardant or non-combustible decorations.
Untreated cotton, batting, flock, tissue paper and some foamed plastics catch fire easily! Be creative, but be Fire Safe
Natural evergreens must be kept away from candles, TV sets, open flames.
If using holiday masks, whiskers or other costumes, be sure they are labeled flame retardant.
Perhaps most of you know all of this, but it sure doesn't hurt to review these tips. We certainly want to ensure our families have a safe and happy Christmas. All of us are busy this time of year juggling work, shopping, and seasonal activities. Don't forget to take a minute to relax and enjoy the season!
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4.
Oct 11, 2000 8:09 AM
He probably would be admitted to the hospital, given every test from IQ to lead levels, have at least 6 specialists and the scene would probably resemble some improbable scene from a tv drama!
As ...
-- posted by Juju57
3.
Oct 7, 2000 10:10 PM
My mother tells the story often of my parents' first Christmas as new parents of my brother. They placed the small tree inside a playpen. Some how my unusually physically precocious 8 month old brot ...
-- posted by HelgaSW
2.
Dec 17, 1999 12:28 PM
Nancy: Both kids and cats can wreak havoc on a Christmas tree. I have lots of broken ornaments to prove it! When the tree goes up, it becomes the focal point. My tree is not just up there for deco ...
-- posted by mkfleury
1.
Dec 16, 1999 8:08 PM
maureen, thanks for sharing those great safety tips.
although i'm not a traditional mom (my "kids" are my cats)... i still have to worry about "child" proofing my holiday deocrations. i went throug ...
-- posted by Nancy_Coulter
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