AMERICAN RED CROSS
With home fires rising sharply during the holiday season, the American Red Cross of South Central and Southeast Kansas is urging families to take simple, proactive steps to stay safe. Increased cooking, candles, and holiday decorations all contribute to a spike in home fires this time of year.
“One in five people the Red Cross assists after home fires are helped in just the holiday months,” said Shannon Wedge, Executive Director of the regional Red Cross chapter. “Home fires can strike quickly, leaving you with as little as two minutes to escape. Help protect your loved ones by practicing your home fire escape drill until everyone can get out in less than two minutes.”
Holiday Decoration Safety
The Red Cross encourages the public to choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations and to inspect all holiday lights before use. Residents should:
- Ensure they’re using indoor or outdoor lights in the proper setting
- Replace strands with worn wires or loose bulbs
- Follow manufacturer instructions on how many light strands can be safely connected
- Use clips instead of nails to hang lights to avoid damaging cords
Tree Precautions
For real trees:
- Choose one with fresh, green needles
- Cut 2 inches off the trunk before placing it in the stand
- Keep it at least three feet from heat sources
- Water the tree every day
- Turn off all tree lights before leaving home or going to bed
For artificial trees:
- Look for a fire-resistant label
- Keep them away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources
- Never place electric lights on metallic trees
Candle Safety
Candles remain a leading cause of holiday home fires. The Red Cross recommends using flameless candles whenever possible, and reminds residents to:
- Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to sleep
- Keep them at least a foot from anything that can burn
- Use sturdy holders on uncluttered surfaces
- Never use candles if medical oxygen is present in the home
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
The Red Cross urges households to install smoke alarms near the kitchen, on every floor, and inside and outside sleeping areas. Alarms should be tested monthly, and batteries replaced at least once a year. For individuals unable to afford or install smoke alarms, assistance may be available through the Red Cross.
Home Fire Campaign Impact
Since launching nationwide in October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has helped save at least 2,519 lives by installing free smoke alarms, creating escape plans, and teaching fire safety in high-risk communities.
To learn more or get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.