Holiday Safety Tip’s from the National Association of Hispanic Firefighters

Christmas Trees
Christmas trees that are not kept moist can present a very serious fire hazard. A dried out Christmas tree can be totally consumed by fire in less than 30 seconds. Watch a video segment of the rapid ignition and burning of a dry Christmas tree in a corner of a living room as flashover occurs in 45 seconds. This is a short and powerful segment. Some trees sold in the area have been cut out of the state and have been drying out since they were harvested, which could’ve been as late as mid-November. Take special precautions when buying your Christmas tree. Trees with brown shedding needles should be rejected. If the tree looks green and fresh, take a long needle and bend it between your thumb and forefinger. If it snaps, the tree is too dry. Look for trees with needles that bend. When the trunk of a tree is bounced on the ground, a shower of falling needles shows that tree is dry.

Lights
Use only lights that have been tested for safety. Identify these lights by the UL label from Underwriters Laboratories or another reputable testing agency. Check the lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections.
Check the labels of lights to see that they are suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Never use indoor lights outside or outdoor lights inside. Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, walls or other firm support to protect them from wind damage. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and do not use more than the recommended number of lights in one circuit.
Always turn off lights on trees and other decorations when you go to bed or leave your home. A short circuit in any of this equipment could cause a fire. Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. Damaged insulation in lighting on a metallic tree could cause the entire tree to be charged with electricity. To avoid this danger, use colored spotlights above or beside a metal tree, never fastened them onto it.

Candles
Candles are a traditional and beautiful part of the season. But they are still a direct source of fire in your home. Keep candles a safe distance from commbustible materials. And remember that a flickering flame is a thing of fascination to little children. Keep candles out of their reach.
· Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens.
· Always use non-flammable holders.
· Keep candles away from other decorations and wrapping paper.
· Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over.

Paper
Dispose of gift wrappings soon after opening presents. A room full of paper lying around on the floor is a holiday hazard. Place trash in an approved container. Do not burn wrappings in the fireplace. They may ignite suddenly and cause a flash fire.

Christmas Gifts
One of the best Christmas gifts you can get someone is a smoke detector. A smoke detector is worth so much, possibly a loved one's life, yet so inexpensive. Over 90 percent of fire deaths occur in residential dwellings between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. when occupants are asleep. Smoke detectors alert occupants when a fire is still small and there is still time to escape.

Holiday Plants
Holly and mistletoe can be fatal to a small child. The smaller the child, the smaller the dose needed to cause serious medical problems. Poinsettia leaves are not fatal if swallowed, but can cause a skin rash and an upset stomach. Call 9-1-1 if your children ingest any of these holiday plants.

Trimming The Tree
When choosing the finishing touches for decorating your tree, purchase tinsel or artificial icicles of a non-leaded material. Leaded materials may be hazardous if eaten by children or pets.
Avoid any decorations that tend to break easily or have sharp edges. Keep tree trimmings that are small or have removable parts out of the reach of children. These pieces may be swallowed.

The National Association of Hispanic Firefighters
wishes you and yours a Safe and Happy Holiday Season
"Feliz Navidad"

Posted by: Eva Solorio, NAHF, Executive Consultant to the President