The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and celebration with family and friends to give thanks for the life we have and the people we share it with.  During this time, many family traditions are put into motion.  Secret family recipes come out for the holidays, the decorations go up to celebrate the season, and the candles come out to enhance the ambiance of the home.  All these things, if not properly managed, can lead to an unforgettable holiday season for the wrong reasons.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking, decorations, and candles are the leading causes of fires during the holiday season.  Cooking fires peak on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas day and are usually the result of unattended cooking due to family distractions, multi-tasking, or exhaustion.  Decorations account for an estimated average of over 800 fires per year and cause an estimated $17 million in damage per year.  Over 50% of decoration fires were started from electrical issues such as improper equipment, installation, or faulty bulbs.  Candle fires peak during the holiday season contributing to 12% of Christmas tree fires and 50% of decoration fires.  The most important way to protect yourself against these common issues is to be self-aware and educate yourself.

Fires can be avoided.  To find out more about the some of the contributing factors to fires during the holiday season and some tips to ensure a safe holiday, visit the NFPA and take advantage of the free resources and tip sheets available to be more prepared.  Hope you and your loved ones have a safe and joyous holiday season!