It's only natural that in the darkest time of the year when the winter solstice is upon us and we’re longing for light and warmth, we turn to sources that provide room lighting, festive feeling and homeliness –– candles, various string lights, decorations, Christmas trees and wreaths with flickering ornaments. But to ensure that being together is associated only with affectionate moments filled with laughter, you have to consider fire safety, thus protecting yourself and your loved ones from dangerous consequences.
Take a look at the advice from Knauf professionals and enjoy the festive end of the year in a fireproof manner!
Tips:
May fire be your friend, not your enemy
• Candles. They have to be placed on a stable base, in an enclosed candle holder or lantern, preferably metal, as far as possible (at least 30 cm) from flammable materials, ornaments and decorations. Lit candles may not be left unattended even for a moment, especially if there are small kids and pets at home. Even when going in the next room, the candle has to be blown out, ensuring there are no sparks. In order to watch out for gusts of wind, lit candles should not be placed too close to windows and doors.
• Sparklers. They seem so small, flimsy and fragile, however the big sparks and high temperature may cause some serious fire. For example, by lighting the Christmas tree or wreath on fire. So it’s better to light them outside. Due to risk of burns, sparklers shouldn't be held by kids.
• Fireplace. If a furnace or fireplace is rarely used, the condition of the chimney should be checked before use. It might require a cleaning. Overheating the furnace is just as dangerous. When lit, the furnace or fireplace may not be left unattended by adults either.
Christmas tree - stunningly beautiful, but is it safe?
• Care for the green beauty. After bringing home a Christmas tree, place it straight on a stable base and set up the room so that the tree doesn’t stand next to fire, various sources of heat and flammable objects. The dryer the tree, the more flammable it is - moisten it regularly. For example, by placing the stem in a vase with water. Or by fixing the stem in wet sand.
• With safe decorations. Neither natural nor artificial Christmas tree should be decorated with candles, sparklers, paper, artificial snow - cotton wool, spray varnish and anything else that could catch fire and ignite. Trees have to be decorated in the presence of adults. When purchasing an artificial tree, ensure it conforms to fire safety rules.
Check twice whether the item meets the requirements of use
• Electric decorations. Since string lights are quite popular during the festive end of the year, they have to be checked before use in regards to fire safety, for example, whether there are no damaged wiring and other defects. If the lights are old or have not been used for a prolonged period of time, better don't use them. The item should be checked by specialists, if necessary. After all, a short circuit may cause a large scale fire. They shouldn’t be left unattended either (for example, when going to bed). When presented with a choice, LED bulbs will be safer that incandescent bulbs.
• Instructions for use. Knowledge gained from instructions for use will not only help you handle the specific items properly, but shall also increase the safety at your home.
• Sockets and electrical wires. Sockets may not be overloaded since there is a risk that wires might overheat. Whereas electrical wires are known to be a pet’s favourite for biting. For that reason, always make sure that the wires are not damaged.
• Pyrotechnics. Instructions for use won’t be enough. Consult a specialist in order to learn how to use pyrotechnics. Pyrotechnics purchased from individuals without a proper license and outside of certified stores are unsafe and dangerous!
Equipment for a fireproof holiday!
• Smoke detectors. Are you sure that the smoke detectors, which are a requirement for every home since 2020, are completely operational and will alert you about fire? Regularly check that they are working, but remove the batteries only when they need to be replaced.
• Fire extinguisher. One of the simplest ones to buy and keep at home (preferably in an easily accessible location) is a foam fire extinguisher. This will be a valuable aid for when fire has just started. Be sure to read the instruction manual after purchasing.
• Fire cover. May be used to extinguish small fires. Highly effective for extinguishing flammable liquids as well.
• Rescue Service . In case of fire (even a small one) call State Fire and Rescue Service.
• Immediate response and appropriate action. Does everyone know how to act in a fire emergency? Both adults and children? Both members of the household and guests? You could revise the rules at the beginning of festivities once everyone gathers. Few suggestions: *) windows may be opened only after extinguishing the fire; *) if a wreath or a tree that’s decorated with string lights catches fire, water may be applied only if the lights are off; use a fire cover or a fire extinguisher while the string lights are on.
