Holiday Fire Safety

The holiday season brings joy, warmth and increased fire risks. Extra lights, candles, space heaters, fireplaces and festive decorations can create hazards if not used safely. The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) reminds you to keep your celebrations safe with these simple tips:

Trees

• Choose a tree with fresh green needles and water it daily. A dry tree can catch fire easily.
• Have an emergency escape plan and make sure your Christmas tree and other decorations are not blocking exits such as windows or doors.

Electrical

• Check holiday lights for frayed wires, damaged sockets or loose bulbs.
• Avoid overloading circuits and electrical outlets. Too many plugs and extension cords can cause overheating and lead to a fire.
• Turn off all holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Make sure all electrical cords are tucked away and kept neat and tidy. When cords are exposed, pets can be tempted to chew on them, or people could trip and fall.

Heating

• Give your heater a metre. Clothes, curtains, furniture and other combustible objects that are too close to a heat source can catch fire.
• Never leave space heaters unattended.

Cooking

• Watch what you heat. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of kitchen fires.
• Keep flammable objects away from the stove. Objects too close to the burner can catch fire.

Candles

• Consider using flameless candles when decorating your home.
• If using real candles, blow them out before leaving the room or going to bed.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly.
• For non-sealed alarms: Replace old batteries yearly or when you hear a low-battery warning beep.
• For sealed alarms: Replace the alarm unit every 8-10 years, as the battery is not user-replaceable.

SFD encourages everyone to take extra precautions this holiday season to keep celebrations safe and free from fires.

SFD wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!