When most people think about the holidays, family festivities and good cheer likely come to mind. What few of us consider is that the holidays also present an increased risk of home fires. Home fires during the holiday season often involve cooking, candles, decorations, and Christmas trees. By taking some preventive measures and following simple safety rules, most home fires can be prevented.

 Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
 Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
 Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
 Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
 Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
 Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

For more information contact the Bismarck Fire Department at (701) 355-1400 or visit our website at www.bismarcknd.gov/fire.