It’s that time of the year when people put up Christmas trees and decorate them with lights, tinsel, ornaments and more. And this is also the time of year when Christmas trees could catch on fire and burn down businesses. Yikes!
Holidays Increase Chances of Fires
Consider all the things that could cause a fire during the holiday season. For instance, you might be using extra heating sources such as fireplaces or space heaters. You might be lighting candles and have open flames in the building. Furthermore, there’s a good chance you’ll plug too many things into one outlet. Or you’re using all sorts of extension cords that may or may not be in good shape. And then there’s cooking… and kitchen appliance usage to add to the potential fire mix.
Other Commercial Fire Safety Tips for Winter
What are some winter safety tips for commercial businesses for the holiday season and winter season in general?
Be vigilant and keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary that could cause a problem such as a fire. For instance, if you see too many plugs plugged into one outlet then do what you can to disperse them to other outlets so the one isn’t overloaded. And if a person could easily trip over an extension cord, move it so it’s out of people’s pathways. If cords are frayed or old, replace them.
As for holiday decorations, it’s a good idea to “turn them off” when you’re not in the room or building. After all, if they’re not “on,” they can’t cause trouble. If you’ve got Christmas trees or plants in the building, keep them well-watered during the winter season and don’t forget to move them away from heat sources. What about candles? If you use real candles, make sure people are awake and in the same room noticing them! Blow them out when they’re not needed and make sure they’re “fully out” before you leave the room.
If you do use extra heat sources, such as space heaters, make sure they’re not near other things that could start on fire. Ideally, keep things at least three feet away from heat sources. And make sure your heat sources are in working order– it can’t hurt to have a professional assess them to make sure they’re not faulty this time of year.
Finally, how’s your fire protection system? When’s the last time it was tested? It should be in good working order “just in case” it’s needed. And have a fire drill/fire evacuation signage– that way people have a general idea of where to go/what to do should a fire start.
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