Holiday Safety Tips from Delco Alarm Systems
The 2022 holiday season is in full swing. Cookies are in the oven, friends and relatives are stopping by and many of us are decorating our homes in the holiday spirit. Keep your family safe this holiday season. Take the time to understand fire hazards, identify potential causes and eliminate any problems before they happen. Below are some holiday safety tips from the National Safety Council.
Smoke Detectors are Essential
One of the easiest safety moves is to have your smoke and fire alarm system updated, or if need be, have one installed. Alarm systems can detect fire and smoke and notify your local fire department immediately. This is especially important if a fire occurs while your family is sleeping or away. Also make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Lighting Hazards
Decorating your house inside and out with lights is a holiday tradition for many cultures. Unfortunately, this can lead to overloaded electrical outlets. Tangled and frayed cords, overloading your electrical system with too many lights as well as as improper configuration can spark a fire. If you have an old set of lights or other decorations that are electrical, always check the cords and verify the integrity of the installation.
Candles
An open flame is a huge fire hazard. There are many flameless candles on the market that work well, minus the risk of fire. If you do use regular candles, never let them burn unattended. Keep wicks trimmed so they do not smoke or produce abnormally tall flames. Keep children and pets away from candles. Also, candles should never be used near bedding, curtains or other flammable items.
Outlets
Don’t overload your outlets and use surge protectors when possible. Since electrical usage increases during the holidays the chances of a power surge are greater.
Christmas Tree
If your family has a live Christmas tree, make sure to choose a fresh tree and keep it watered. Christmas lights get very hot and a tree that is beginning to dry out is at greater risk for fire. The folks at Delco Alarm Systems want you and your family to have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season. For information about smoke/fire/carbon monoxide alarm systems call our professionals at (610) 494-9100.