Red Cross Christmas Tree Decorating Contest

American Red Cross provides tips to safely decorate your home for the holidays

December 2, 2020 12:14 pm

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- The American Red Cross Rhode Island has provided tips to help the community decorate for the holidays safely.

According to a 2020 National American Red Cross survey, one out of three people have left a room or fell asleep while burning candles. Candles should never be left unattended, and should be kept away from children, pets, and anything that is flammable.

The American Red Cross in Rhode Island suggests following these safe decorating tips to prevent fires and injuries:

Check all holiday light cords to make sure they aren't frayed or broken. Don't string too many strands of lights together — no more than three per extension cord. Turn off all holiday lights when going to bed or leaving the house.
Ensure outside decorations are for outdoor use and fasten lights securely to your home or trees. If using hooks or nails outside, make sure they are insulated to avoid electrocution or fire hazard.
Look for the fire-resistant label when buying an artificial tree. Keep it away from fireplaces, radiators and other sources of heat. Never use electric lights on metallic trees.
If getting a live tree, make sure it's fresh and keep it watered. Bend the needles up and down to make sure no needles fall off.
Don't light the fireplace if hanging stockings on the mantel.
Check the labels of older decorations. Some older tinsel is lead-based. If using angel hair, wear gloves to avoid irritation. Avoid breathing in artificial snow.
Have good, stable placement when using a ladderand wear shoes that allow for good traction.