RRFR shares tips on fire safety for the holidays

While most people are focusing on enjoying the holidays and getting gifts in order, Rio Rancho Fire Rescue is focused on keeping citizens safe.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 800 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees. With more than 200 Christmas tree fires per year in the U.S., approximately two out of every five home Christmas tree fires started in the living room, family room or den. One in five tree fires were caused because a live tree was too close to a heat source.

RRFR has a few recommendations to prevent these types of fires from happening.

To prevent tree fires

• Keep your tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators and space heaters.
• Water live Christmas trees every day.
• Inspect holiday lights each year before putting them up. Do not use lights with frayed or pinched wires.

To prevent decoration fires in general

• Keep flammable items away from stove tops, portable heaters and fireplaces.
• Inspect smoke alarms at least once a month. Replace batteries every year. Replace alarm itself every 10 years.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms to provide early warning.
• Have a fire escape plan in place with at least two exits noted and a location to meet outside.
• Have chimneys cleaned and inspected at least once a year.
• Be aware of lithium battery fire safety. Stop using if there’s an odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking or odd noises.

For more information visit usfa.fema.gov.