Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service #FireFreeHoliday Series

Released: December 23, 2014 at 12:57 p.m.
Tip #4: Safety for holiday lights and decorations

Winnipeg, MB - Holiday spirit is high this time of year, but so can be the risk of home fires. In our #FireFreeHoliday series, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service would like share some helpful tips to help you minimize the risk of a fire in your home and make your holiday season enjoyable and safe.

Lights and Decorations

It’s always fun to deck the halls and trim the tree during the holiday season. But some lights and decorations can be dangerous if not used carefully. Here are some tips for ensuring your decorations stay decorative, not destructive:

  • Always use Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada approved holiday lights. Check the bulbs, sockets, wires and plugs on your lights to ensure that nothing is cracked, broken or exposed. Replace any missing bulbs, and be careful not to bypass a fuse.
  • Do not overload electrical outlets. Do not link more than three light strands unless the directions say it is safe to do so. Connect light strings to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet.
  • Check the wires from your lights once in a while - they should NOT be warm to the touch.
  • Do not use lights on metallic trees. A faulty system could energize the tree and shock or electrocute anyone who comes into contact with it.
  • Make sure to turn off all interior and exterior Christmas lights before going to sleep and whenever you are leaving your home.
  • Use only non-flammable or flame-retardant decorations, and make sure to place decorations away from heat vents and fireplaces.

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