There’s a higher chance of a fire in your home this time of year.
Cam Abrey, Dauphin's fire chief, has ways to stay safe in the holiday season. “If you have a live Christmas tree remember to water it because dry Christmas trees are prone to going up in flames rapidly if a fire breaks out. If you’re using a fake tree or a live one, make sure you check the cords, read the manufacturer’s notes to make sure you don’t exceed the amount of strands that can be connected together. Also, check to make sure the bulbs are tightened, there are no bare wires, and see if the wires have been pinched or kinked after being put away for the past year.”
Abrey says not to overload electrical circuits and to avoid temporary light gauge extension cords.
Christmas trees and anything that could catch fire should be at least 3 feet away from a fireplace or heat source. Christmas trees shouldn’t be blocking exits.
