Tis the Season: To Celebrate Safely!

This isn't just the time of year that we eat more than usual, it's also the time when we have the most household accidents and fires.

To help make sure your holidays don't go from Merry to Scary, Remember these 10 Holiday Safety Tips:

1. Keep decorations at least 3 feet away from heat sources- especially those with an open flame, like fireplaces and candles. And remember to blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.

2. The best decorations are safe decorations, so when you are decorating, make sure not to run cords under rugs or furniture, out of windows, or across walkways and sidewalks.

3. If you have a natural Christmas tree water it to keep it fresh and safe. Real trees can dry up and turn into kindling in no time at all. Get rid of the tree after Christmas. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage.

4. Always turn off your decorations when you leave your home and when you’re sleeping. Most deadly fires happen while people are asleep.

5. Be mindful of how you are using electrical outlets. If you’re using extension cords or adapters that add receptacles, consider having a qualified electrician add more outlets to your home. Extension cords are a common cause of home fires.

6. Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly berries and amaryllis are known to be poisonous to humans and animals, so keep them well out of reach, or avoid having them.

7. Need a perfect gift idea? How about a smoke alarm? Every home needs a working smoke alarm in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level, including the basement. And remember to test your own to make sure they’re working.

8. Don't mount lights in any way that can damage the cord's wire insulation. To hold lights in place, string them through hooks or insulated staples--don't use nails or tacks. Never pull or tug lights to remove them.

9. If you’re using a space heater, switch it off before leaving the room. It only takes seconds for a fire to start if a space heater tips over or comes in contact with something combustible, like a blanket or curtains.

10. If you plan to travel for the holidays, don't discuss your plans with strangers (or on social media). Have a trusted friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your home.

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