Two fires in Delta Nov. 17 and 18 have provided timely reminders about the risks during cold weather and the upcoming Christmas holidays.
One fire was in North Delta, the other in Ladner, and resulted in major damages to both structures, putting several people out of their homes.
Exact causes have not been determined but Delta Fire and Emergency Services say both were likely electrical in origin.
To remind people of the dangers of the fire dangers at this time of year, the department posted some seasonal reminders about Christmas trees and space heaters on its Facebook page.
A YouTube video from the National Fire Protection Association, in the U.S., says that space heaters — need space. https://www.facebook.com/CityofDeltaFire/
“All heaters need space,” says the video. Anything that can burn, such as blankets, clothes, curtains, furniture, paper or even people, must be kept a metre away from a space heater.
As well, it’s important to use a newer model space heater that has an automatic kill switch that shuts off the heater, if it falls over.
And always turn off the heater when you leave the room, or if you’re going to sleep, says another video that features a cartoon character.
“Life isn’t a cartoon. Heating is a major cause of home fires,” said the video.
Delta Deputy Fire Chief Dave Wood previously offered one other tip, saying space heaters should be plugged directly into the wall and not into a power bar, where they could overload a circuit.
Chimneys also should be inspected yearly while December is the peak month for candle fires.
Another seasonal hazard is the traditional Christmas tree, and Delta Fire and Emergency Services have some tips about that.
“As you celebrate the holiday season, be Firesmart! A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. Electrical problems cause many Christmas tree fires.
“Please ensure trees are watered and at least three feet (one metre) away from any heat source,” Delta firefighters said on Facebook.
Other safety tips to keep in mind are:
• Choose a fresh tree with green needles that don’t fall when touched, while the stump should be sticky with resin
• Ensure the tree is at least a metre from any heat source such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, lights, sunny window, or heat vents.
• Ensure tree isn’t blocking an exit
• Make sure to water the tree daily and ensure trunk is always in water in the tree stand. If water drops below the trunk, the stem may reseal itself, requiring a fresh cut. Use a tree stand that has widespread legs for better balance
• Use Christmas lights that are qualified by a testing laboratory and are for indoor use
• Replace any worn out or frayed strings of Christmas lights
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree
• Turn off the lights when going out or going to bed
When Christmas is over, toss out the tree but don’t leave it inside or on your property because when it dries out it’s a fire hazard. Instead, check on how to chip or recycle. Trees should be tossed within 10 to 14 days, because after that time in a heated building, even the freshest tree can start to dry out
Almost a third of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems, while a heat source too close to the tree causes 20 per cent of the fires, said the NFPA.
In the kitchen …
Grease and fat fires are a leading cause of home fires in Canada, so be extra careful when doing this kind of cooking. Here’s what to do if grease in a pot or pan catches fire:
Smother the flames by covering the pan with a lid
Turn off the heat immediately
Use baking soda (flour can be explosive) on shallow grease fires
Never turn on the overhead fan, as this could spread the fire
Never throw water on a grease fire
As for the decorations …
Choose decorations that are flame-retardant, non-combustible and non-conductive. If there are young children or pet in your home, avoid very small decorations
Avoid using angel hair (glass wool) together with spray-on snowflakes. This combination is highly combustible.
Do not use metallic ornaments on the tree. If they make contact with defective wiring they could become a shock hazard
Lights …
Use Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certified light strings/sets
Use the proper lights for the environment. Indoor light strings/sets should not be used outdoors because they lack weatherproof connections. Some outdoor light strings/sets burn too hot indoors
Inspect light strings/sets before use. Check for cracked bulbs and for frayed, broken or exposed wires and discard if faulty
Do not use electric light strings/sets on metallic trees. A faulty system could energize the tree and shock or electrocute anyone coming into contact. Illuminate metallic trees with coloured floodlights placed at a safe distance from the tree and out of reach
Turn off all tree and display lights before retiring for the night or before leaving the house
Candles
Place candles away from absolutely anything that could catch fire, at least 30 centimetres
Never leave burning candles unattended
Burn them only when a responsible adult is overseeing the flame
Put candles in sturdy holders on a stable surface, well away from drafts, curtains, children and pets
Snuff them out before leaving the room or going to sleep, avoid using candles in a bedroom or other areas where people may fall asleep
Don’t burn a candle completely, put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home
Never use candles during a power outage. Ensure flashlights and batteries are ready during a blackout
December is the peak month for candle fires while more than a third of candle fires start in the bedroom
The fireplace
Never burn gift wrappings, boxes, cartons, or other types of packing in the fireplace. They burn too rapidly and generate far too much heat
Don’t hang Christmas stockings from the mantle when the fireplace is in use
Always use a screen in front of the fireplace to protect against flying sparks
Never use gasoline or any other flammable liquids to start a fire
Use only seasoned and dried wood
Never leave the fire unattended or let it smolder
Clean the ashes regularly. Place the ashes in a metal container and store outside away from flammable materials
Don’t use Christmas trees for firewood
Electrical outlets
There is often a tendency to overload wall outlets during the holiday season. This is an unsafe practice and should be avoided even for short durations
Inspect all cords before using. Make sure they are CSA certified. Look for loose connections or frayed or exposed wires. Discard any defective cords. Read the labels and manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper use
Insert plugs fully into outlets. Poor contact may cause overheating or shock
To avoid possible overheating, do not coil or bunch an extension cord which is in use and do not run it under carpets or rugs
Gift suggestions
Home smoke alarm
Carbon monoxide detector
Multi-purpose (ABC) fire extinguisher
