Burlington County Freeholder Director Mary Ann O’Brien, in conjunction with Burlington County Fire Marshal Robert Carr, has developed some essential tips that will help residents keep their holidays merry and safe.
“Winter holidays are a time for family and friends to come together,” said Director O’Brien. “Still with lights, decorations, holiday cooking, and everything else that makes this season so special the risk of a fire increases significantly. Properly maintaining string lights and replacing faulty ones, using flame resistant materials, and testing smoke alarms are just a few tips that often times go overlooked during busy holiday preparations. Our Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office is dedicated to making all of our residents aware of the steps that can be taken to make this holiday season a safe one.”
Two of every five home decoration fires are started by candles. Nearly half of decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.
“Following just a few simple tips can ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season,” said Fire Marshal Robert Carr Jr. “Simple things like blowing out candles and turning off string lights before going to bed can go a long way to preventing house fires. A safe holiday is a happy holiday.”
Attached is an infographic with further fire safety tips from the Burlington County Fire Marshal. The Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office can be contacted by calling (609) 702–7158 or on the County website at www.co.burlington.nj.us.
