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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEWPORT NEWS FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFERS HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

2011 Nov 30

Contact: Lisa King, NNFD Public Education/Relations Coordinator, (757) 926-8404.

The Newport News Fire Department offers these safety tips so that your family is safe this holiday season.

Christmas Tree Safety
Preventing your chances for a fire in your home is the first step to protecting your family. During the holidays, do not place your tree close to a heat source like a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited. Water your tree daily. Never put holiday tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove. When your tree becomes dry, remove it from the house. A dry tree can easily ignite. Check your building codes to find out if you are allowed to have a natural tree.

Holiday Light Safety
Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wire, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive wear. Use only UL approved lighting. Do not overload outlets and connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Never leave holiday lights on when you leave the house or go to bed.

Candle Safety
Avoid using lit candles. If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning.

Every Home Should Have Working Smoke Alarms
According to the United States Fire Administration, having a working smoke alarm more than doubles your chance of surviving a fire. Nearly half of residential fires and three-fifths of residential fatalities occur in homes with no smoke detectors. Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, flashlights and home escape ladders make great holiday gifts! Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. Test smoke alarms monthly, keep them free of dust and check the manufacturer’s instruction on how often to change the batteries. Some smoke alarms, such as the ones the Newport News Fire Department installs, have long-life lithium batteries that last for the life of the detector. If you are a homeowner in the City of Newport News and need a smoke alarm, call the Newport News Fire Department Smoke Alarm Hotline at (757)926-8009.

Plan Your Escape
Plan and practice a home fire drill. Find two ways out of every room and designate a place to meet outside. Share your home escape plan with family members visiting during the holidays.

Additional safety information can be found on Newport News Fire Department’s website at www.nngov.com/fire or you can call and ask to speak to a Public Educator. The Newport News Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

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