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Steps to prevent holiday tragedy

As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season fast approaches, Kidde wants to remind consumers to take extra safety precautions to prevent potential home fires and other incidents that can lead to tragedy.

Using holiday lights, improperly caring for fresh Christmas trees, burning unattended candles, using fireplaces and cooking all increase the risk of home fire-related deaths and injuries during the holidays. The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that fires during the holiday season injure 2,000 people and cause more than $500 million in damage.

Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires in the U.S. with about 30 percent of home fires starting in the kitchen, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Cooking fires often result from unattended cooking and human error. In addition, the NFPA reports that 14 percent of all candle fires in the U.S. occur in December.

"The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and happiness, however too often tragedy strikes when fire breaks out in the home," said Ed LeBlanc, president of Kidde, the world's largest manufacturer of residential fire safety products. "Fire-related deaths and injuries are preventable if people follow the proper safety precautions, take the time to test and maintain their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, place several fire extinguishers within reach throughout the home, and conduct home fire drills."

To help prevent residential fires and reduce the risk of personal injury, safety experts recommend the following:

• Water Christmas trees frequently to keep them moist as dry trees are considered a fire hazard. Always unplug Christmas tree lights and electronic toys and trains before leaving home or going to sleep.

• Carefully plan where your tree will be positioned. Make sure it is a safe distance from any heat source and doesn't block exits.

• Select holiday decorations that are flame resistant, flame retardant or made with non-combustible materials.

• Never leave burning candles unattended, and keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials, including Christmas trees.

• Keep an eye on the range or stove when cooking for holiday visitors.

• Test smoke alarms and replace batteries as needed. Replace smoke alarm units every 10 years or sooner.

• Place fire extinguishers within reach in every 600 square feet of living space and on every level of the home, including in kitchens, hallways, garages and basements. Ensure that each adult family member knows where every fire extinguisher is located and knows how to use one.

• Have your home, heating systems and appliances inspected by a qualified professional before the holidays to ensure all is in proper working order. Have your chimney inspected for cracks and/or blockages.

• Ensure the flue is open before starting a fire in a wood burning fireplace to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in the home.

• Conduct a home fire drill during the day and at night and practice this drill frequently to ensure every family member knows how to get out of the house in case of fire. For those who may have difficulty responding to a smoke alarm, such as young children or the elderly, assign an adult to waken and assist them.