Daftarsbmptn.com – Ahead of the long Christmas and New Year 2026 holidays, the Fire and Rescue Department (Damkar) and local authorities are once again issuing an important reminder to the public to be more vigilant about the risk of fires at home during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Holidays are a time for family gatherings, but the risk of fire also increases if proper preventative measures are not taken.
House fires during the holiday period are often triggered by a number of everyday factors: unsafe electrical circuits, the incorrect use of candles or decorative lights, tangled or damaged wiring, and unsupervised stoves while cooking Christmas or New Year’s meals. The Fire Department emphasizes that simple but consistent preventive measures can ensure a calm and safe holiday without the hassle of fires.
1. Inspect & Secure Home Electrical Equipment
One of the main causes of home fires is electrical short circuits from damaged wiring or electrical outlets. The Fire Department recommends that before the holidays, all home electrical installations be inspected and any exposed wiring or loose electrical outlets repaired. Avoid stacking multiple devices on one electrical outlet, as this can cause overheating. Some important tips recommended by firefighters and electrical safety experts:
Use high-quality electrical outlets rated for your home’s electrical capacity. Turn off or unplug electrical devices that are not in use, especially when sleeping or leaving the house. Check cords, plugs, and devices for signs of damage or frayed wires. If so, replace them immediately. This step is important because electricity is not only a source of energy for homes, but also a frequent cause of house fires during the holidays when many decorative lights or electronic devices are turned on simultaneously.
2. Use Decorative Lights & Decorations Safely
Christmas decorations, such as decorative lights, are often part of the celebration. However, without proper supervision, these lights can become a fire hazard. Officials recommend: Inspect all cords and decorative lights before installing them. Do not use lights with frayed cords or damaged sockets. Install lights properly and avoid using more than the recommended electrical capacity. Turn off decorative lights before going to bed or leaving the house. Additionally, placing decorative lights near curtains, wrapping paper, or flammable objects should also be avoided, as this can increase the risk of fire.
3. Be Careful with Candles & Decorations That Have Flaming Flames
Many homes use candles as part of their Christmas decorations. While they provide a warm atmosphere, candles can also be a potential fire hazard if not placed safely. Firefighters recommend placing candles in a stable location, away from flammable objects, and never leaving them lit while the homeowner is away or asleep. Alternatively, using electric or LED candles can reduce the risk of open flames while still maintaining the beautiful feel of Christmas decorations.
4. Keep an Eye on the Stove & Cooking Activities
Long holidays are synonymous with communal cooking, whether for Christmas or New Year’s celebrations. The kitchen and stove are fire-prone areas, especially if left unattended. Never leave the stove burning unattended. Make sure the kitchen area is tidy and keep flammable materials such as tissues or cloths away from the stove. Check that the stove and cooking equipment are clean and in good working condition before use. This step is crucial because many house fires start from forgotten kitchen utensils or stoves that are continuously used unattended.
5. Prepare Fire Safety Equipment
The Fire Department also recommends that homes be equipped with portable fire extinguishers (APAR) and detection devices such as smoke alarms. These devices can provide early warning and help extinguish small fires before they become larger. Furthermore, every family should have an emergency evacuation plan in case a fire occurs.
Conclusion, An Incident-Free Holiday
Through these recommendations and tips, the Fire Department hopes that the public can enjoy a fire-free Christmas and New Year’s holiday. Simple precautions such as checking electrical installations, monitoring stove use, and ensuring safe decorations can make the celebrations safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for the whole family.