Safe holiday lighting: watch the candle flames!

As published in MapleLine Magazine: Nov.4, 2009

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by Steve Sorensen

Many people are surprised to learn that, overall, the most common cause of fire is related to candles, whether leaving them unattended (including falling asleep while a candle is lit), using candles for lighting, or lcating them too close to burnable objects. Candles can be easily knocked over by children, pets or sudden drafts.

Electric holiday lights and displays are a delightful addition to holiday presentations, indoors and out. To keep these light-ups safe, it’s important to perform safety checks on light strings and ornaments. All electrical appliances including holiday lighting should have a CSA or ULC label attached to show the equipment has been tested and certified as safe.

In Sooke, we probably average about three calls a year for fires directly related to improper use of electrical extension cords. This is either because they are overloaded or improperly used, such as being placed under furniture or rugs, coiled up and still plugged in, or being undersized for the amount of electrical power being used.

The BC Office of the Fire Commissioner’s website reports that for the years 2001-2003 there were about 1,225 fires due to electrical fault or mis-use within BC causing fire losses of $20.5 million in that three-year period.

In the holiday season, typical injuries like electric shock or burns result from too many light strings strung end to end, low-wattage ornaments burning high-wattage bulbs, or overloaded extension cords.

Be safety-wise this season:
• Before stringing lights, inspect for cracked sockets, frayed, loose or bare wires or loose connections. Unplug light strings before replacing bulbs or fuses.
• Replace damaged ornament parts with manufacturer-specified items. Bulbs with too-high wattage are a fire hazard.
• Check light strings to see how many strings can be safely joined end to end.
• Indoor lights should only be used indoors; outdoor lights should only be used outdoors. Run outdoor light cords above the ground, away from snow and water.
• Always turn off electric decorations before leaving home or going to bed, and be sure all smoke detectors are in working order.
• Brown or brittle needles on Christmas trees are prone to fire. If you have a fresh tree in your home place it in a no-tip stand and keep it watered. With an artificial tree, make sure it's flame-retardant. Place your tree at least 3 ft. from the fireplace or any other heat source.
• Locate decorations in an area that will not block or interfere with an exit or exit route. Space heaters do need space; ensure at least one metre of clearance.

There are more safe-lighting guidelines available online for the holiday season, including at www.fiprecan.ca . MM

Steve Sorensen is the Fire Chief, District of Sooke.

Here are some other helpful links:

Holiday Safety Tips

Candles - the major cause of home fires

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This article was published on page 20 in MapleLine Magazine (Holiday 2009 issue / No.09-Jan.10).