Jackson Hole Radio

Covering the Tetons since 1965

Covering the Tetons since 1965

Holiday Safety Tips from Teton County Emergency Management

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As the holiday season approaches, Teton County Emergency Management reminds residents to prioritize safety during celebrations. Holiday activities like cooking, decorating, and using heating devices can create fire risks and other safety hazards. Here are practical tips to keep your home safe this season:

Christmas Trees and Fireplaces

  • Hydrate Your Tree: A dry tree is a fire hazard. Keep it well-watered and at least three feet away from heat sources. Watch this demonstration from the National Institute of Standards and Technology to understand how quickly a dry tree can ignite.
  • Fireplace Safety: Have your fireplace and chimney inspected annually by a professional. Cool ashes thoroughly before disposal, and always treat them as if they could still be hot.

Cooking Safety

  • Stay Attentive: Cooking fires peak on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve, according to the NFPA. Never leave stovetop cooking unattended. Learn more about preventing cooking fires on the NFPA’s Cooking Safety page.

Holiday Lights and Decorations

  • Inspect and Unplug: Check all holiday lights and cords for damage. Discard frayed or worn items. Always turn off lights and decorations when leaving the house or going to bed.

Winter Heating

  • Space Heaters: Use space heaters as temporary heating only. Plug them directly into a 20-amp outlet and never use an extension cord.
  • Gas Lines and Vents: Clear snow and debris from gas meters and vents to prevent blockages or damage.

Preventing hazards is much easier and more cost-effective than recovering from a fire or other emergency. Additional resources for holiday safety are available from the NFPA, National SafetyCouncil, and American Red Cross.

Teton County Emergency Management wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

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