During the holiday season, residential fires are more frequent and deadly. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more than double the number of open-flame fires occur on Christmas Day than on an average day.

Here are some safety tips to prevent any fires from starting in your home this holiday season:

• Be Aware of what’s Cooking: Fires are commonly cause by food that is left unattended in ovens and on stove tops. Make sure you keep a fire extinguisher close by and if you leave the kitchen bring a pot holder as a reminder of food cooking.
• Space out your Candles: To reduce the danger of candles, make sure your candles have separation with anything that is flammable. Before you go to bed or leave the house, double check to make sure all your candles are blown out. Another option for the holiday season to avoid candle flames could be battery operated candles for your home.
• Don’t Forget your Christmas Tree: It only takes about 30 seconds for a tree to go up in flames. To avoid any tree fires in your home try to purchase a fresh tree with intact needles, get a fresh cut on the trunk, and water it every day. If you use artificial trees, make sure yours is flame-retardant.
• Inspect all your Holiday Lights: Before you start to hang all those beautiful holiday lights, check for any frayed, cracked wires or broken sockets. Also, when you are putting them up try not to use nails or staples, they can damage the wiring and increase the risk of a fire, use UL-rated clips or hangers.

During these winter months, there is an increase in home fires and electrical accidents. It’s important to take extra precaution on all holiday decorations around your home. Contact Peniel Environmental to learn where else you can improve the safety through out your home.