As the Peanuts gang song goes….”Christmas Time is here, happiness and cheer.” Yes, Christmas can be a magical time of year what with all the decorations, family get-to-gathers, gifts and food! However, even though we seem to be busier than ever during the holidays, don’t leave the matter of safety off of your holiday to-do checklist. Won’t you commit a minute or two to safety to protect you and your family this holiday season?

• Water, water, water your tree
  Dry trees pose a fire risk – make a fresh cut on the base before putting your tree into a sturdy stand, and water frequently.
• Check your lights, check them twice.
  Inspect all of your electric lights and decorations for damage or wear. Cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections may pose a fire or shock hazard.
  
• Plan your fire escape.
  Use the holidays as a good time to practice a fire escape plan with your loved ones. Identify at least two exits from every room in the house
• Sleep safe: Install carbon monoxide alarms
  Be sure that at least one carbon monoxide alarm is installed on each floor of your home, and always close to sleeping areas.
• Be flame aware.
  Always blow out unattended candles and teach your children to stay away from lit candles or fireplaces.
• Giving wrapping paper a second life.
  Don’t burn used wrapping paper as it may cause intense flash fires, and throwing it out adds waste. Consider recycling or repurposing it instead.
• Know your lights and cords.
  Do not connect more than three miniature light strings together. If you have LED lights, read the directions on the box. With LED light strands, you can string more sets together. Also, be sure to check the rating on your extension cords and do not plug in more than the recommended wattage.
• Steer your tree clear.
  Your tree should be positioned at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. It should also not block any doorways or exits.
• Decorate with a safe eye.
  Cords should not be run under carpets or tacked-up with metal nails or staples. Small decorations can be choking hazards so keep them out of the reach of toddlers.
• Look for UL label.
  Now, maybe its just me raised “old school”, but I was always taught to look for the big UL on all electrical items for the best in safety. The UL mark appears on products that have been tested for safety. I don’t know about you, but as busy as the holidays are, I don’t want to take any chances with safety set-backs. .