Celebrate the holiday season safely

The winter holiday season is a time for families and friends to get together. Let's celebrate safely while keeping in mind a few safety tips. According to the Office of the Fire Commissioner, between 2005 and 2009 during the winter holiday season (December 15 to 31), fire-related deaths in Alberta homes doubled when compared to the rest of the year. 

Holiday decorating:

  • Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn. Never leave a lit candle unattended. Consider using LED battery candles instead of wax candles. LED battery candles are a safe alternative that is both versatile and realistic. According to the 2009 Alberta Fire Commissioner's Statistical Report, 45 fires were started due to a candle accident.
  • LED light strings are energy-efficient light strings that produce very little heat and reduce the risk of fire. LED lights should have an approval label attached to the light string such as a red tag stating an approval file number. 
  • Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
  • Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
  • Use approved light sets that bear an approved marking authorized by the certification organizaton such as CSA, ULC, cUL, etc. which are recognized by the Province of Alberta.
  • Use the proper lights for the enviroment; indoor lights should not be used outdoors because they lack weatherproof connections.

Caring for your Christmas tree:

  • If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified or identified as fire-retardant.
  • If you have a fresh tree, cut 3 to 5 cm from the base of the trunk and make sure it is immersed in water at all times. Pick a tree with a strong green colour and noticeable fragrance. A tree with high moisture content is safer and very few needles should fall when the butt of the tree is tapped on the ground. 
  • When placing your tree, it must be at least 1 metre away from any heat source like a fireplace, radiator, candle, heat vent or lights.
  • Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
  • Place the tree in a stand that will hold two to three litres of water and top it up daily. Check the water level daily to ensure the tree is always immersed in water. If the water level drops below the trunk, the stem may reseal itself, requiring a fresh cut.
  • To clean the tree stand and improve the tree's water intake, use one capful of bleach to a cup of water.
  • Use Christmas three lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory; notice if the lights are for indoor or outdoor use.
  • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
  • Never use lighted candles on or near a tree.
  • Always turn off tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.

Holiday entertaining in your home:

  • Test your smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly.
  • Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
  • Keep matches and lighters up high and away from children.
  • Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
  • Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers outdoors. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

 Fireplaces:

  • Never burn gift wrapping, boxes, cartons or other types of packaging in the fireplace. They burn too rapidly and generate too much heat.
  • Don't hang Christmas stockings from the mantel when the fireplace is in use.
  • Always use a screen in front of the fireplace to protect against flying sparks.
  • Don't use Christmas trees for firewood.

Further information:

Last updated: Monday, December 12, 2011
Page ID: 6857

County Hall: 2001 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada T8A 3W7