Holiday Fire Safety

East Hartford, CT - Festive celebrations, flickering lights and winter greens are hallmarks of the holiday season, but they also present fire risks that can quickly turn this festive time of year into a devastating one. The Town of East Hartford and the East Hartford Fire Department would like to remind residents of holiday fire safety.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips: 

• It is critical to make sure your smoke alarms are in a working condition. If you have not changed your smoke alarm batteries, please remember to do so.
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside each sleeping area and on ever floor of the home and in the basement.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month.
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years. 

Christmas Tree Safety Tips:

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. 
• Before placing the tree in the stand, out 2 inches from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source.
• Water daily.
• Turn Christmas lights off before leaving the house or going to bed.

Holiday Decorating Safety Tips:

• Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

Cooking Safety Tips:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, do not use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while using the stove. If you leave the kitchen even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging) away from the stove.

For additional safety tips, please visit this page.