State urges safe holiday decorating

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Published: Tuesday, 01 December 2015 16:26

INDIANAPOLIS – After the effects of the turkey coma have worn off, many Hoosier will go straight into holiday mode, decking the halls with Christmas trees, holly and décor galore.

The Department of Homeland Security is reminding Hoosiers to keep safety in mind when decorating.

According to the department, most house fires occur during December and January and many end in injury or death.

The State Fire Marshal and Indiana Emergency Services offer the following tips:

• Christmas trees should be purchased fresh and discarded when the needles dry and break easily when bent.
• Before placing the base of the tree in a stand, cut 1-2” for better water intake.
• The base of the tree should be filled with water and placed at least three feet away from heat sources.
• Before hanging Christmas lights inside or out, check to make sure no wires are exposed or fraying.
• Do not connect more than three strands of lights together.
• If you’re placing the lights outside, verify they are made to withstand the elements.
• When possible, older style lights should be replaced with newer, cool-to-the-touch lights.
• Candles should not be used on a tree or in an unattended holiday display.
• Lights should be turned off when leaving home or going to bed.

For more information on holiday decorating safety click here.

Article from TheStatehouseFile.com, a news website powered by Franklin College journalism students.