Tips for a Fire-Free Fall and Halloween

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Fall decorations, like dried flowers, cornstalks, and hay bales are highly flammable.

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities including Halloween and Fall Festivals.  Do some preliminary planning this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

• Fall decorations, such as dried flowers, cornstalks, and hay bales are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including outdoor fire pits, light bulbs, and heaters.

• Keep your home brightly lit indoors and outside. Check the lighting for your front entryway or porch and replace any damaged bulbs that may have burned out.

• Be sure that the extension cords you use outside are rated for outdoor use. Also, don't overload extension cords. Your cord should be the correct amps for what you're plugging into it.

• Remove or highlight potential tripping hazards, such as electrical cords. Clear debris and other obstacles from your lawn, sidewalks, and steps.

• Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.

• Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.

• Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric along with making certain nothing impairs your vision.

• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle.

As always, if a fire, smoke, or soot invades your home or business, please give our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton a call.  We are available 24/7 including holidays.