25 Jan Important Holiday safety rules

Important Holiday safety rules

It is surprising how many people chose to ignore basic safety rules during the Holidays.  A practice that puts us and our families at risk. The following list is a good reminder of what is important. 

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

• Use lights and extension cords that are in good condition.
• Use indoor lights if indoors and outdoor lights if outdoors. There’s a reason both exist!
• Turn off the lights before going to bed or before leaving the house, the office.
• Respect the number of sets of lights that can be strung together. See manufacturer’s instructions.
• Opt for LED lights as they have cool-burning lights and save electricity.
• Never put extension cords through doorways or under carpets.
• No nails, tacks or staples to hang cords and lights. Guess why!
• Do not overload electrical outlets.

THE TREE

• Do not use angel hair (glass wool) together with spray-on snowflakes. This combination is very combustible.
• Do not use metallic ornaments on the tree. If they make contact with defective wiring, they could become a shock hazard.
• Real trees quickly become dry and are a fire hazard. Most trees will last about 14 days.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Keep candles one meter away from anything that can burn.
• Always consider the safety of toys (e.g. small pieces can be a choking hazard, movement of pieces that may be pinch points, quality of materials, etc.).
• Do not leave hot or cold foods at room temperature for more than two hours.
• The house must be equipped with a working carbon monoxide detector, smoke alarm, fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit.
• Do not allow anyone to drive if the weather presents a danger and if their faculties are impaired.

Jackie Beaudoin, Leclerc Insurance and Financial Services
Source :  Government of Canada