USFA issues Christmas decor decorating fire safety tips

Emmitsburg, MD – Electric lights, candles and Christmas trees can present a fire risk, warns the U.S. Fire Administration.

To prevent fires in your home this holiday season, USFA recommends the following:

  • Do not leave a real Christmas tree up longer than two weeks.
  • Place the tree away from heat sources.
  • Keep the real tree stand filled with water at all times.
  • Use only non-flammable decorations.
  • Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions say it is safe to do so.
  • Avoid using lit candles; consider battery-operated flameless candles instead.
  • Ensure the tree and holiday decorations do not block exits.

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