November 24 through November 30, 2017, is National Home Fire Safety Week. There is no better time to consider how safe you and your loved ones are in your home, particularly with the holidays upon us.
Year-Round Fire Safety
You should practice fire safety tips throughout the year, but these tips are especially important over the holidays. Some of the most common causes of fires are more prevalent over the holidays compared to every other time of the year.
Use these tips to keep your home safe throughout the year.
- Ensure that smoke alarms are installed and working correctly.
- Be sure you have at least one fire extinguisher in your home and know how to use it.
- Check electrical products and power cords to ensure that they are not frayed or worn.
- Keep power cords away from heat and water sources.
- Avoid running extension cords in a dangerous way, such as in regular walking spaces, behind radiators or baseboards, or through doors, walls, or ceilings
- Keep light bulbs away from flammable materials.
- Ensure candles are away from drapes and furniture.
It seems like we need more power sources during the holidays, which can result in some dangerous behavior. Be cautious about how you use fire and electricity this holiday season.
Safe Holiday Cooking
The holidays are usually a time to gather around the table with friends and loved ones, which means lots of home-cooked meals. It is especially important to consider fire safety while in the kitchen as cooking is the leading cause of home fires in Canada.
Use the following tips to help prevent fires in the kitchen.
- Never leave food unattended on the stove.
- Keep handles on pots and pans turned in so that they are not bumped or tempting for children.
- Avoiding wearing loose-fitting clothing while cook—and roll up your sleeves!
- Use a timer to remind you when food will be ready.
- If you have longer hair, tie it back while cooking.
- Keep your cooking surfaces (including stoves) clutter-free.
- Do not cook while intoxicated.
If a fire starts, do not turn on the overhead fan. That will spread the flames and only make matters worse. If you have a fire in your microwave or oven, shut the door to that appliance immediately and turn it off. The lack of oxygen to the flames will eventually smother it. If you have a pan fire, use a lid to extinguish it as well.
Never try to put out a grease fire with water. Use baking soda or salt instead. A large wet cloth can also be used to help smother the flames.
If a fire starts and you cannot put it out quickly, leave your home immediately and call the fire department from a safe location.
Safe Holiday Lighting
Lighting can be hazardous if not used properly. Be sure to inspect your holiday lights before you put them up for wear and tear and any fraying. Poorly maintained cords can result in sparks and fires, which is unsafe both indoors and out. You should also avoid stringing different types of lights together in one chain (such as LED and incandescent).
If you are using an extension cord, be sure to purchase the cord that you need. Do not use indoor wires outdoors or string several extension cords together. Purchase a cord that is just right for what you need, and you can use it for years to come. Like the lights, however, be sure to inspect the cord for wear and tear before you use it.
Be sure that your lights are completely plugged into the outlet. A poor connection can also cause shocks and overheat. Never overload your electrical outlets.
Getting Help with a Personal Injury This Holiday Season
While the holidays are usually filled with fun and cheer, they may also cause injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured this holiday season, you may have legal options. Call our 24/7 injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURTor visit our website to speak to someone now about your claim.
Happy holidays from everyone at Diamond & Diamond Lawyers!