Safety should be paramount in December, synonymous with holiday festivities and family gatherings. Corpus Christi Fire Department’s Captain Michael Tressider emphasizes this, citing an alarming statistic: the city experiences an average of two to three fires each holiday season, primarily due to candle misuse.
The fire risk escalates during the winter months, especially in December and January, as The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reported. A crucial step towards safeguarding your home is ensuring the presence and functionality of smoke detectors. Captain Tressider stresses the importance of these devices, stating, “Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are vital. For many, they are the sole fire detection method in their homes. It’s essential to have them installed, ensure they contain batteries, and place them outside every sleeping area and on every level of the home.”
With the tradition of Christmas trees central to many holiday celebrations, special attention must be given to their maintenance. For those opting for a fresh tree, keeping the base watered is critical. Dry trees can easily ignite from decorative lighting. The fire department advises keeping a new tree until January 1. Captain Tressider notes, “Many people extend their holiday celebrations and delay taking down their tree. However, natural trees can dry out even with regular watering.”
Space heaters, a common source of warmth during cold months, should be unplugged when not in use. This precaution extends to multi-use extension cords. Tressider further advises having appropriate firefighting equipment like a fire extinguisher at hand. “Attempting to extinguish a fire with water or a wet towel is risky, as it requires getting too close to the flames. A commercially developed fire extinguisher is a safer option,” he explains.
The most critical advice from Captain Tressider is to contact the local fire department immediately in case of any fire emergency. He emphasizes that even if a fire seems to have been extinguished, it’s vital for fire crews to inspect the site to ensure no remaining hot spots could reignite.
In summary, while the holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, it also increases fire risks. The Corpus Christi Fire Department’s recommendations – regular smoke detector maintenance, cautious use of holiday decorations, safe use of heating devices, and readiness for fire emergencies – are essential guidelines. Adhering to these safety tips can ensure everyone a festive and safe holiday season.