The NYCHA Journal

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Fire prevention month
Health & Safety Top Story 

Fire Prevention Month: Holiday Safety Tips 

Michael

In recognition of Fire Prevention Month, NYCHA’s Fire Safety Department would like to provide the following information to help keep you and your family safe. 

Candles 

Candle fires peak during the holiday season. How does a little flame become so dangerous? More than 33 percent of candle fires occurred when the candles were left unattended or abandoned. Roughly 25 percent of the fires occurred because something combustible, such as curtains or paper, was too close to the flame.  

Here’s how you can more safely burn candles:  

  • Use candles with flame-protective, non-combustible shades or globes.  
  • Use a sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic candle holder.  
  • Avoid the use of candles with embedded combustible decorative items.  
  • Place candles at least 4 feet away from curtains, drapes, decorations, blinds, and bedding.  
  • Place candles out of reach of small children and pets.  
  • Refrain from using decorative/floral candle rings.  
  • Extinguish candles before leaving the room.  
  • Extinguish candles when they burn within 2 inches of the holder. 

Christmas Trees 

Real and artificial trees can be fire hazards. Defective lighting, including electrical cords and plugs, cause almost half of all Christmas tree fires.  

When choosing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.  

For real trees, test the freshness of the tree by gently grasping a branch between your thumb and forefinger and pulling it towards you. Very few needles should come off. In addition, water your tree and make sure the water level is above the cut; check the water level daily. 

Make sure your tree is adequately supported and that your tree ornaments and decorations are flame-resistant. 

Fire Prevention Month Recap 

As Fire Prevention Month comes to an end, here’s a summary of some important safety information:  

  1. Plug major appliances (such as refrigerators, washing machines, stoves, air conditioners, or microwave ovens) directly into the wall.  
  2. Avoid overloading extension cords or power strips.  
  3. Never leave cooking appliances unattended and keep combustible items away from cooking appliances while in use.  
  4. Always make sure cooking appliances are cooled down before cleaning them to prevent burns.  
  5. In the event of a grease fire, never use water to put it out. Instead, pour baking soda on it.  
  6. Use the PASS method when using a fire extinguisher: 
    • Pull the pin, holding the extinguisher upright.
    • Aim at the base of the fire.  
    • Squeeze the handle.  
    • Sweep the nozzle from side to side.  
  1. Create an escape plan and practice it! Knowing your exits and practicing your escape plan can help your family stay safe!  
  2. Extinguish candles when leaving the area and always make sure to keep candles away from children and pets. Also, candles should be placed in a sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic candle holder. 
  3. Hydrate live, cut Christmas trees. During the holiday season, dry trees are a common factor in home fires. Make sure all ornaments are fire-retardant and that string lights have safety labels. Artificial trees should be fire-retardant as well. 

Use these tips all year round to help keep you and your family safe!