As the holiday season approaches in Bentonville, AR, it’s time to start preparing for the festivities—beautiful lights, the warmth of the fireplace, and delicious holiday meals. However, while the holidays are full of joy, they also present unique fire hazards. December consistently emerges as the peak month for fire damage restoration in Rogers and Bentonville. Home fires during this time often stem from decorations, candles, and cooking activities. Between 2017 and 2021, U.S. fire departments recorded numerous incidents linked to Christmas trees, lights, candles, and culinary mishaps.
At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Rogers and Bentonville, we understand that dealing with fire damage restoration can be overwhelming, especially after an emotional event like a fire. We are here to help you prevent fire-related accidents and restore your property if disaster strikes.
Essential Fire Prevention Tips To Remember During the Holiday Season
Christmas Trees
- Turn Lights Off: One of the leading causes of holiday fires is unattended Christmas tree lights. Be sure to unplug your tree’s lights when you’re not around or before going to sleep.
- Pick a Fresh Tree: A freshly cut tree absorbs water better, which keeps it healthier and more resistant to fire. Always select a fresh tree or even consider cutting one yourself.
- Water Your Tree Regularly: A well-watered tree is less likely to dry out and become a fire hazard. Make sure your tree stand has enough water, and check it daily.
- Position the Tree Carefully: Keep your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, or space heaters. A cooler environment will also help your tree stay fresher for a longer time.
- Decorate Responsibly: Choose non-combustible ornaments, and avoid using overly flammable materials for decoration.
- Inspect and Handle Lights Properly: Only use tested, approved Christmas lights, and avoid daisy-chaining multiple extension cords. Inspect cords before use and replace damaged ones.
- Pet Patrol: Keep pets away from the tree and electrical wires. Pets may chew on cords or accidentally knock over decorations, which could lead to a fire.
Christmas Lights
- Inspect Lights Thoroughly: Before hanging lights, check for frayed wires or loose connections, which can cause electrical fires. Replace any damaged bulbs or cords.
- Use Timers: Set timers to ensure your lights turn off when you’re not home or when it’s time to go to bed. This can prevent lights from overheating.
- Outdoor Lights: Be sure to use lights specifically designed for outdoor use. Keep them away from anything that could catch fire, like dry leaves or flammable decorations.
- Extension Cords: Use outdoor-rated extension cords for outdoor lights and ensure all cords stay dry to avoid electrocution and fire hazards.
Candles
- Place Candles Safely: Never leave burning candles unattended. Keep them away from flammable items like curtains or decorations. Place candles on stable, non-combustible surfaces.
- Consider LED Candles: Flameless LED candles are a safe alternative that provides the same festive look without the fire risk.
- Proper Candle Extinguishing: Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to bed. Avoid placing candles where children or pets can reach them to prevent house fires.
Cooking
- Stay Attentive in the Kitchen: Kitchen fires are another common cause of holiday damage. Never leave cooking food unattended, especially when frying, grilling, or baking. Always monitor your stove and oven closely.
- Maintain Smoke Alarms: Ensure your kitchen smoke alarms are in working condition, and test them monthly. Replace batteries every year to keep them functioning properly.
- Keep Flammables Away: Keep towels, oven mitts, and other flammable items away from your stovetop. It’s also essential to regularly clean your cooking surfaces to avoid grease buildup, which can catch fire.
- Maintain a Safe Zone for Children and Pets: Keep children and pets at least three feet away from hot cooking surfaces to avoid accidents.
1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Rogers and Bentonville Is Your Trusted Fire Damage Restoration Partner
At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Rogers and Bentonville, we are experts in fire damage restoration in Bentonville, AR, and fire damage restoration in Rogers, AR. If the unthinkable happens and a fire does break out, our experienced team is ready to help restore your home. We understand that fires are traumatic, and we work closely with you and your insurance company to ensure a smooth and efficient restoration process.
During the holiday season, the last thing you want to worry about is mold or water damage. Our services include mold remediation in Bentonville, AR, water damage restoration in Bentonville, AR, and mold removal in Rogers, AR. We also provide flood cleanup in Rogers, AR, and water damage restoration in Rogers, AR, ensuring you receive the highest level of care and professionalism, even in unfortunate situations. Enjoy the holidays with peace of mind!
1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Rogers and Bentonville is available for immediate assistance, offering compassionate service for any fire and smoke damage restoration needs. Our team is highly trained to handle the complexities of fire damage and ensure your home is restored to its pre-damage condition as quickly as possible.
For fire damage restoration in Bentonville, AR, and surrounding areas, contact 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Rogers & Bentonville today. We’re here to restore your peace of mind, one step at a time.
