Prevention 52: Holiday Fire Safety

Destruction of lives and property by uncontrolled fires has been around since ancient times. Despite our advanced technology, the United States has one of the highest fire death rates in the industrialized world, suffering one structure fire every 84 seconds. So this week take 2 minutes to go on a fire hazard Easter egg hunt.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), holiday decorations (excluding trees) cause about 790 home fires annually in the United States, resulting in 1 civilian fire death, 26 civilian injuries, and $13 million in direct property damages. As you decorate in the coming weeks, keep fire prevention uppermost in your mind.

Candles can certainly be festive and romantic, but they can also cause deadly, costly fires. U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 7,610 home structure fires started by candles every year. These fires cause an annual average of 81 civilian deaths, 677 civilian fire injuries, and $278 million in direct property damage. Includes tips for safer candle use.

Sky lanterns (Chinese lanterns) are airborne paper lanterns used in celebrations of Asian cultures and increasingly on July 4th. When lit, these lanterns rise like a hot air balloon. Sky lanterns are banned in many places due to potential aircraft interference and fire hazards. Although use is strongly discouraged, article includes safety tips for use.

Article offers tips on keeping safe during Valentine’s Day celebrations, including tips for cooking, candles, and fireplaces.

The movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation can serve as a reminder about fire and life safety during the holiday season.

Many home fires that start during our New Year celebrations are accidental and most commonly caused by candles and fireworks. Avoid having a fire ruin your New Year's Eve by thinking of fire safety as you plan your festivities.

Fire safety is very important to remember when celebrating Independence Day. Firecrackers, rockets, fountains - pyrotechnics come in all types, shapes and sizes. The one thing they all have in common is how dangerous they are. Even sparklers, which many people assume are 'safe' fireworks for their children, pose a hazard. Sparklers burn at over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit; hot enough to cause 3rd degree burns and ignite almost any material.

Deep-fried turkey has been gaining in popularity over the years and has been touted by famous chefs to be a quick method of cooking a flavorful and moist Thanksgiving bird. Be aware, frying is more dangerous than many other types of cooking. Many cooks may not realize that deep-frying a turkey is very hazardous, even for those who have been using fryers for years.

Learn steps for fire safety during holiday travel. Learn how to prepare your home before you leave and how to select a fire-safe hotel. Also discusses fire safety in friends’ and relatives’ homes and cooking safety.