MFRD Reminds Residents to Put Fire Safety at Top Your Holiday To-Do List

With the holiday season underway and people are busy shopping, the Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department (MFRD) reminds residents to include fire safety on their to-do list.

Christmas trees, unattended cooking, candles, and space heaters are the leading causes of house fires during the holiday season.

“These types of fires are easily avoidable,” said MFRD Interim Fire Chief Mark McCluskey. “Proactive steps can help protect your family from a devastating fire or loss of life during the holidays.”

Residents are reminded to follow a few safety tips to prevent fires during the holiday season:

Christmas Trees
Both live and artificial trees pose a fire risk. Water live Christmas trees daily. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from live or artificial trees. Never leave tree lights on while you are away from home or overnight.

Unattended Cooking
Never leave your stove unattended while cooking. Unattended or distracted cooking is one of the leading causes of cooking fires.Also, keep clutter away from your stove.

Candles
Open flames on candles can easily start a fire if left unattended or accidentally knocked over. Keep burning candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.

Space Heaters
Make sure space heaters are U-L-Listed or U-L-Tested by the Underwriters Laboratory. There should be at least three feet between the heater and any combustible household item. Never use extension cords with a space heater. Turn off and unplug heater when you leave a room or leave home. Make sure the heating unit has a tip-over or safety switch. Kerosene heaters should be cooled down before refueling. Clean heater of dust and debris and check the power cord for frays before use. Space heater safety video: https://youtu.be/pHmxFFSDxws.

For more information about holiday safety contact the MFRD Fire Marshal’s Community Risk & Reduction Office 615-893-1422.