Holiday Fire Safety

Life-Saving Tips

•    Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home.  Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them at least once a year.  Consider installing a one-year lithium battery-powered smoke alarm, which is sealed so it cannot be tampered with or opened.  If you cannot afford a fire alarm, the Peru Fire Department will provide you with one free of charge.

•   Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including fireplace or heat vent.  The heat will dry out the tree and cause it to more easily ignite by heat, flame or sparks.

•   Never put holiday tree branches or needles in a fireplace or woodburning stove.

•   When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.  The best way to dispose of your tree is to take it to a recycling center or have it collected by a community pick-up service.

•   Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wire, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking or wear.

•   Only use UL approved lighting.

•   Do not overload outlets.  Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet.

•   Do not leave lit holiday lights unattended.

•   Avoid using lit candles.  If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked over.

•   Never leave the house with candles burning.