Holiday fire safety tips for homeowners, families

KENT — Eric Epstein, chief of the Kent Volunteer Fire Department, offered some sensible tips for household safety during the Christmas holiday season.First of all, he said, “Every homeowner should make sure their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are properly working.” If they are battery powered, the chief suggested changing the batteries twice a year. “To make it easy to remember, do it every time you set your clocks to or from daylight saving time.”If you have a live tree in your home, Epstein said, it is essential to water it regularly — not just on the day it is set up. Trees that dry out become significant fire hazards.He also noted that when putting up Christmas decorations, most homeowners run multiple electrical extension cords throughout their homes. “Extension cords are a very serious cause of fires if not properly handled.” Always use extension cords that are properly rated for the intended use, he said. Never place extension cords under carpet or anything else that could be flammable. Never let extension cords rub up against anything that could damage them, such as sharp objects. And it is better to use one longer extension cord than have multiple ones strung together.When hanging outdoor lights, be sure to purchase ones rated for outdoor use. When using extension cords outdoors, only use those rated for outdoor use; never use indoor-rated extension cords outdoors.When working outdoors, always use a ladder tall enough for the job, making sure it is properly placed on the ground. If necessary, have a friend or family member hold the ladder firmly in place.If you light Hanukkah candles in a menorah, be sure it is not placed near curtains, drapes or anything else the candles could ignite. The chief also urged homeowners to keep decorations and other holiday things, including streamers, bunting, holiday cards, wrapped presents, et cetera, away from stand-alone room heaters, candles, lamps (electric or oil) and forced hot air heating vents. In other words, anything at all that could cause decorations to heat up and combust.