Wednesday, December 6, 2000

Christmas checklist for safety

By JOHN MUNFORD
jmunford@TheCitizenNews.com

To make sure it's a safe holiday for everyone, the Fayette County Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued a holiday safety checklist of safety reminders.

Most of the safety suggestions revolve around Christmas trees both artificial and natural ones. Christmas lights also can be hazardous if the appropriate precautions aren't taken.

Enhancing fire safety can be as easy as making sure smoke detectors are present on each level of a home and keeping a fire extinguisher in a handy place.

The department's checklist also includes the following recommendations:

Never overload electrical outlets.

Do not block exits with Christmas trees and do not place trees near fireplaces or heaters.

If using a cut tree, purchase the freshest tree you can find and keep it well watered.

Place the tree securely in an appropriate stand.

Use artificial trees that are flame retardant.

Never leave the tree lit while asleep or away from home.

Use UL listed miniature lights that are cool to the touch, and replace old or frayed sections of lights.

Use flame-retardant ornaments.

Review your fire escape plan and educate each member of the family, especially children. If you do not have a plan, make one.

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