Wishing you a safe and joyful Christmas

HICKORY, NC (December 4, 2019) — The members of the Hickory Fire Department would like to offer the gift of a fire safe Holiday season. The Christmas season is unfortunately a time of year characterized by fires, many of which are a result of the improper use and placement of seasonal decorations. We hope the following list of fire safety tips will help you enjoy a fire safe holiday.

• Keep light strings and other electrical decorations out of reach of children and pets. They are attracted to pretty lights and decorations.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use tree lights. Any string of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections should not be used.

• Make sure all the lights you use are UL listed or by a listed by a testing laboratory.

• Remember some lights are designed only for indoor or outdoor use. Never use lights that are designed for indoor use outside.

• Never use real lighted candles on a tree or near evergreen or draperies.

• Follow all manufacturers specifications when replacing burned out fuses on decorative light strings. Never use anything but the properly rated fuse.

• If using a live tree, make sure you buy a fresh one and be sure to water it daily. Try to keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water. Do not purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles. Check for fresh, green needles and place your tree in a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over.

• Always place your tree away from any heat source, and out of travel paths. Never block a door or exit with your decorations.

• If you use an artificial tree, be sure it is listed as fire resistant.

• Always turn off tree lights, window lamps, and other electrical decorations before leaving the house or going to bed.

• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house or garage or placed against the house.

The Hickory Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.  For additional information, contact the Hickory Fire Department at (828) 323-7521.                

Happy Holidays!