Entertaining safely this holiday season

By Susan Hofforth

As we have said in previous articles, house fires and related accidents go up significantly over the holiday season. It’s important to enjoy the time together with friends and family, but just as important to do it safely and responsibly.

Keep your house safe for guests by making sure that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are tested and are working well. Don’t block any exits with decorations or extra tables and chairs. Clear away any accumulations of snow from the outside, and make a clear path away from your house. Be conscious of your home escape plans and make sure your guests are aware of how they can get out of the house, if necessary. Encourage all smokers to go outside, but if you do allow smoking indoors, make sure ashtrays are sturdy and cannot be knocked over, and that all cigarettes are extinguished.

Keep an eye on what you are cooking. It’s easy to get distracted. Cooking fires most commonly occur when cooking is left unattended. Always stay in the kitchen when cooking especially if using oil or high temperatures. If a pot catches fire, carefully slide a tight-fitting lid over the pot to smother the flames and then turn off the heat.

Finally, keep a careful eye on what people are drinking. Always provide non-alcoholic drinks, and don’t discourage guests from choosing them. Serve plenty of snacks and other food when serving alcohol. It’s a good idea to make one person responsible for serving guests alcohol, and not to have a common source that can’t be monitored, like a punch bowl or a keg. Be aware of how much guests are consuming, and stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the end of the party. Be sure everyone has a safe way to get home. Call a cab, find designated drivers, or drive them yourself.

Enjoy the holidays, but be responsible. The fire department wants to wish everybody a safe and merry Christmas.