Holiday Hazards-Decorating Safely

Decorating without Burning the House Down

Each year, fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of more than 400 Americans, injure 1,650 more, and cause more than $990 million in damage.
   Candle-related fires are one of the most common holiday home hazards, averaging more than 12,000 each year. So make sure you keep those Advent and Chanukah  candles away from flammable items and blow them out when you leave the room.
   Another  indoor fire hazards this time of year is the Christmas Tree. You want to place the tree at least three feet from any heat source, such as the fire place, a radiator or candles. If you have a an artificial tree, make sure the box is labeled or certified by the manufacturer as Fire-retardant. If you have a real tree, remember a moist tree is less likely to catch fire than a dry one. When selecting your tree, check to see if the needles fall off when touched- this indicates a dry tree. To keep it moist, keep water in the tree stand and check it daily. 
   One of the biggest fire hazards is the fire place. Everyone loves a roaring fire when it is cold out. But it can cause horrible damage if proper care is not taken. Be careful that you hang those stockings with care! Make sure your damper is open and cover your fireplace with a screen or grate. Again- curb that temptation to put the tree next to the fire place. It will make a lovely picture, but the consequences can be deadly. On Christmas morning, grab a garbage bag to throw the wrapping paper in. Tossing it into your fireplace can create enough sparks and embers to start a fire outside the fireplace. 
Decorations help us feel festive during this wonderful time of year. But let's decorate with safety in mind!

   If you do have a fire, get your family out of the house and call 911. Call you insurance company once everyone is safe.

If you have questions about your Homeowner's Insurance, 
please contact us at  The Brockman Agency  or call toll free 877-987-8683