The Westbrook Fire and Rescue Department has offered these seasonal safety tips:
• Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks.
• Never put holiday tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood- burning stove.
• When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or have it picked up 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 before putting them up.
• 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.
• Never leave fireplaces or space heaters unattended.
• Avoid using lit candles. If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they can not be easily knocked down.
• Never leave the house with candles burning.
• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. Test the batteries every month and change them at least once a year.
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