Keep the Holidays Bright: Simple Tips to Prevent Home Fires
- NEIA Red Cross
- 30 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The holidays are all about cozy vibes, twinkling lights and delicious meals—but did you know home fires spike by 20 percent during the holiday season? Cooking accidents, unattended candles and unsafe decorations are the usual culprits. One in five people the Red Cross assists after home fires are helped during the holiday months. Home fires can strike fast—sometimes giving you just two minutes to escape. The American Red Cross wants to help you keep the season safe and joyful with a few easy precautions.
Holiday Cooking Safety
The kitchen is the heart of the holidays, but it’s also where most fires start. Here’s how to keep things safe while you whip up those festive favorites:
Stay put while cooking. If you leave the kitchen—even for a minute—turn off the stove.
Set a timer. It’s an easy way to remind yourself that something’s cooking.
Skip the loose sleeves. They can catch fire quickly.
Keep kids and pets three feet away from the stove.
Clear the clutter. Potholders, towels and packaging should stay far from heat sources.
Clean regularly. Grease buildup is a fire hazard.
Consider a fire extinguisher for your kitchen.
Double-check before going to bed. Make sure all appliances are off.
Decorating & Heating Safety
December is the peak month for candle fires—about 20 a day in the U.S.—and heating equipment is another big risk. Here’s what to do:
Give heaters space. Keep flammable items at least three feet away.
Never leave space heaters unattended. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
Place heaters on hard, nonflammable surfaces. Avoid rugs and bedding.
Be smart with candles. Keep them away from anything that burns and never leave them unattended.
Test smoke alarms monthly and practice your escape plan until everyone can get out in two minutes or less.
Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Install smoke alarms near your kitchen, on every level of your home, and inside and outside bedrooms. Test them monthly and replace batteries yearly. If you need help getting or installing smoke alarms, contact your local Red Cross.
A few simple steps can make all the difference. Let’s keep the holidays merry, bright—and safe!