Don't Let Your Holiday Go Up in Flames

FRIDAY, Dec. 24 (HealthDayNews) -- Fire safety should be included on your list of reminders as you prepare for the holidays.

The Burn Center at Loyola University Medical Center has launched a prevention education campaign to inform people how they can reduce the risk of burn injuries and house fires.

Here are some fire and burn prevention tips:

• Keep holiday lights and electrical decorations away from children and pets.
• All of your holiday decorations should be made of flame-resistant or flame-retardant materials.
• You should only use space heaters, electrical lights and appliances that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory. Always follow manufactures directions when using these items.
• Inspect all your holiday lights before you plug them in, even if they''re new.
• Don''t overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
• Unplug your Christmas tree lights before you go to bed or before you leave the house.
• Place live Christmas trees well away from fireplaces, space heaters and radiators.
• Keep a clear path in all rooms in case you and your family have to get out of the house quickly.

More information

The National Fire Protection Association has more about holiday and winter fire safety.

-- Robert Preidt

SOURCE: Loyola University Health System, news release, December 2004