The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it also brings unique fire risks to both homes and workplaces. Decorations, cooking, heating, and large gatherings can all create fire hazards if safety isn’t prioritized. At Flammatech, we believe fire prevention should be top of mind. Whether you’re decorating your home or preparing for a busy holiday season at work, these 10 holiday fire safety tips will help you keep your space safe.

1. Inspect and Maintain Holiday Lights

Holiday lights are a common source of fires. Before you hang your lights, inspect them for frayed wires, exposed cords, or broken bulbs. Only use lights rated for the appropriate environment (indoor or outdoor), and never leave them on unattended.

For the workplace: Make sure lights and decorations follow safety guidelines and aren’t overloaded on one outlet.

Tip: Use LED lights for energy efficiency and reduced heat output.

2. Keep Your Christmas Tree Hydrated (or Safe)

A dry Christmas tree can catch fire quickly. If you have a live tree, water it daily to keep it fresh. If decorating your office, consider an artificial tree, which is safer if kept away from heat sources.

Tip: Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations for added safety.

3. Turn Off Lights and Decorations When Leaving the Room

Always turn off lights and decorations when you leave the room or go to bed. A short circuit or overheating can lead to fires.

For the workplace: Turn off lights and decorations at the end of the workday to prevent fire risks overnight.

Tip: Use a timer to automatically turn off lights at a set time.

4. Practice Candle Safety

Candles can create a cozy atmosphere but can easily become a fire hazard. Never leave candles unattended and keep them away from flammable materials like paper, curtains, or decorations.

For the workplace: Use battery-operated candles for décor instead of open flames.

Tip: Always extinguish candles when leaving a room or going to bed.

5. Don’t Overload Electrical Circuits

Overloading circuits with extra lights and gadgets can lead to overheating, sparks, and fires. Avoid daisy-chaining power strips and don’t overload outlets.

For the workplace: Ensure that office outlets are not overloaded and that power strips are used properly.

Tip: Use power strips with built-in surge protection.

6. Keep Decorations Away from Heat Sources

Holiday decorations like wrapping paper, tinsel, and wreaths should be kept away from heat sources such as space heaters, stoves, and fireplaces.

For the workplace: Ensure office decorations are placed away from heat-producing equipment like space heaters or lighting fixtures.

Tip: Keep live trees at least three feet away from heat sources.

7. Inspect Fire Extinguishers and Smoke Detectors

Check that smoke detectors are functioning and fire extinguishers are accessible and charged. Smoke detectors should be tested monthly, and batteries should be replaced regularly.

For the workplace: Ensure that fire extinguishers are clearly marked, accessible, and up to code.

Tip: Keep a fire extinguisher in both the kitchen and garage at home. Make sure the workplace has enough fire extinguishers based on the size of the space.

8. Be Mindful of Cooking Fires

The kitchen is a common place for fires to start during the holidays. Always stay in the kitchen while cooking, and keep flammable items away from heat sources.

For the workplace: Ensure employees follow proper fire safety protocols when using stoves or microwaves.

Tip: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and never leave cooking unattended.

9. Have a Fire Escape Plan for Home and Work

A fire escape plan is essential. Ensure everyone knows how to exit safely and designate a meeting point outside. Make sure to have two exits from each room.

For the workplace: Conduct regular fire drills to ensure employees know what to do in case of an emergency.

Tip: Practice your escape plan regularly with family or coworkers to ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures.

10. Store Wrapping Paper and Packaging Materials Safely

Wrapping paper and packaging materials are highly flammable. After the holidays, store wrapping paper away from heat sources, and never burn it in the fireplace.

For the workplace: Dispose of excess wrapping paper and packaging in fire-resistant containers to avoid cluttering the office with flammable materials.

Tip: Store wrapping paper and ribbons in fireproof or fire-resistant containers.

The holidays should be a time for family, fun, and festive cheer—not a time to worry about fire hazards. At Flammatech, we specialize in keeping your home and workplace safe with comprehensive fire protection services.

• Fire Extinguisher Services: We install, inspect, and maintain fire extinguishers, so they’re always ready to use.
• Smoke Detector Installation: We can help you install or upgrade your smoke detection system for year-round safety.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late—Stay Safe with Flammatech!

Whether you’re at home or at work, keeping your space fire-safe this holiday season is essential. Contact Flammatech today to schedule a fire safety inspection and make sure your home and workplace are ready for a safe and joyful holiday season.

At Flammatech, we’re committed to providing fire protection and safety solutions that keep you, your loved ones, and your workplace safe. Have a safe and happy holiday season!