Local emergency services professionals are reminding the public to be smart and safe over the Holiday Season, as many of our ways to celebrate can also create fire hazards.--NEWS PHOTO KENDALL KING
kking@medicinehatnews.com
Medicine Hat’s Fire and Emergency Services are sharing tips to help Hatters remain safe throughout the Holiday and winter seasons.
Carter Gramlich, fire prevention officer with the city, told the News there are several risks associated with the Holiday Season, however steps can be taken to prevent incident.
The first aspect of prevention is to ensure seasonal items have been properly maintained.
“People are digging out their extension cords and plugging in their block heater for their vehicle or they’re plugging in Holiday lighting, so making sure that cords and lighting are in good condition … and safe to use,” Gramlich told the News.
Another measure of prevention is to remain aware of what’s going on in and around the home.
“With cooking … set a timer if you leave the kitchen,” said Gramlich. “Some people like to deep-fry a turkey and if you’re doing that … make sure you do it outside, in an area away from your house and that you do it safely.
“Keep candles away from things that burn (and) make sure you have candles on a non-combustible base.”
“With Christmas trees … if the tree is fresh cut and you water it regularly, there should be no concern with having it in your house for three to four weeks, but once Christmas is over, it’s time to (dispose of it) as it can become a greater hazard once dried out,” he said.
Lastly, Gramlich encourages Hatters to be prepared with the proper safety measures, such as carbon monoxide and smoke detectors placed on each level throughout the home, especially near bedrooms.
“As the weather gets colder we want people being aware of carbon monoxide and the hazards that it prevents as our furnaces are running more,” Gramlich said. “In some cases, the vents can become blocked either by snow or ice. So, having a carbon monoxide detector alarm in your house and testing it to know that it’s working is certainly something we would recommend.
“We also want everyone to have a working smoke alarm. I recommend a smoke and carbon monoxide combination unit. If you have a fire extinguisher, make sure it’s somewhere that’s accessible, you know where it is and you can get it if you need it.”
