As Saint John gets into the festive spirit, the Saint John Fire Department is reminding residents to prioritize safety to prevent holiday-related fires. A few simple precautions can ensure your celebrations are both merry and safe. Following guidelines issued by the city, here are the essential tips to protect your home and family this season.

Choosing and Maintaining Your Christmas Tree

Your Christmas tree is a centerpiece of holiday decor, but a dry tree can become a major fire hazard. The Fire Department advises you to select a freshly cut tree, which will stay green longer.

• Test for freshness: Before buying, tap the tree on the ground. Very few needles should fall off. The needles should bend rather than break, and the stump should feel sticky.
• Keep it watered: Place your tree in a sturdy stand that can hold at least two to three litres of water. Check the water level every day to ensure the base of the trunk is always submerged.
• Position it safely: Keep the tree away from all heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators, and heating vents. Make sure it does not block any exits or doorways.
• Dispose of it promptly: A real tree should be removed from your home within 10 to 14 days. After this period, it can become dangerously dry.

Safe Decorating Practices

Holiday decorations add to the festive atmosphere, but they also introduce potential risks. Choose your decorations wisely to minimize fire hazards.

Opt for decorations that are flame-retardant and non-combustible. If you have small children or pets, avoid using very small ornaments that could be choking hazards. The Fire Department also warns against using metallic ornaments on your tree, as they can become a shock hazard if they touch defective wiring. Never use real lighted candles on a Christmas tree.

Lighting Safety is Crucial

Twinkling lights are a holiday staple, but they require careful handling to prevent electrical fires.

• Check your lights: Always inspect light strings before plugging them in. Discard any sets with frayed wires, cracked bulbs, or broken connections.
• Use certified products: Ensure all your lights are certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
• Use lights as intended: Use only indoor-rated lights inside your home and outdoor-rated lights for exterior decorating. Outdoor lights are designed to be weatherproof, while some may burn too hot for indoor use.
• Turn them off: Always turn off all holiday lights before you go to bed or leave the house. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of an unattended fire.

For more fire safety information, you can visit the Saint John Fire Department website or call them at 658-2910.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my real Christmas tree?

You should check the water level in your tree stand daily. The base of the tree trunk must remain submerged in water at all times to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.

Can I use my indoor Christmas lights outside?

No. You should only use lights specifically rated for outdoor use for any exterior decorating. Indoor lights are not built to withstand outdoor weather conditions and lack weatherproof connections, creating a serious electrical hazard.

When is the best time to take down my Christmas tree?

The Saint John Fire Department recommends disposing of your real Christmas tree within 10 to 14 days. Even a well-watered tree will begin to dry out after this period, increasing its flammability.