Halloween fire facts according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
- From 2014 to 2018, an average of 770 home structure fires began with decorations per year.
- More than two of every five (44%) of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment.
- More than one-third (36%) of these fires were started by candles.
- More than one-fifth (22%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen; 16% began in the living room.
At such a high cost, it’s crucial that you take the necessary steps to help prevent a fire from igniting in your home this season. To help you enjoy a safer holiday, follow these important Halloween safety tips from the experts at Armstrong Water Mold Cleanup & Restorations.
- When choosing a costume, stay away from billowing or long-trailing fabric. If you are making your own costume, choose a material that won't easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or flame. Look for costumes labeled "Flame-Resistant"—nylon or heavyweight polyester costumes are best. Flame Resistant does not mean 'fireproof'.
- Children should stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire. (Have them practice stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with hands, and rolling over and over to put the flames out.)
- Swords, knives, and similar accessories should be made of soft, flexible material.
- Trick-or-treaters should wear sturdy walking shoes that fit properly.
- Make your home safe for trick-or-treaters.
- Remove all objects around the outside of your house that could cause children to trip or fall. Turn your outside light on.
- Parties should only be hosted within your household.
- Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes.
- Ensure that all children in your home know the location of the exits should an emergency arise.
- Ensure you have installed working smoke and CO alarms, and practice your home escape plan.
- It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candles in a jack-o-lantern.
- If you use a real candle, use extreme caution.
- Tea lights are a safer option and should be used outdoors only.
- Make sure children are watched at all times when candles are lit.
- When lighting candles inside jack-o-lanterns, use long fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter.
- Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways and yards.
- Ensure you extinguish the flame—do not leave it burning.
- Avoid decorating with candles or torch lights.
- Ensure that combustible Halloween decorations such as crepe paper, cornstalks and dried flowers are kept well away from sources of heat, including light bulbs and heaters.
- Keep all exits clear of decorating materials.
- If using decorative lights indoors or outdoors, check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Discard damaged sets. Do not overload extension cords.
- Always extinguish candles before moving them.
- Always use a suitable holder when burning candles.
- Keep clothes and hair away from an open flame.
- Candles should always be sited out of the reach of children and pets.
- Put candles on a heat-resistant surface (note: TVs are not fire-resistant objects).
- Extinguish candles before you leave a room and never go to sleep with a candle still burning.
Working With Armstrong For Your Fire Damage Restoration Services
Southwest Florida homeowners have the perfect option in the professionals at Armstrong Water Mold Cleanup & Restorations. We have the skills and expertise to provide quality fire damage clean-up in Fort Myers no matter the nature or extent of the damage.
We can also provide you with additional guidance throughout the entire restoration process. Reach out to us today for a free inspection and estimate. Call (239) 592-3777.