SREMA Urges Residents to Practice Holiday Safety with Top Tips for a Fire-Free Season

 
By SREMA
December 23, 2025
 

As families across the region gather to celebrate the holiday season, the Southern Regional Emergency Management Agency (SREMA) is reminding residents to keep safety at the forefront of their festivities. While the holidays bring joy, tradition, and togetherness, they also present an increased risk for fires and home accidents—many of which can be prevented with a few simple precautions.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly half of home fires caused by holiday decorations occur because of electrical malfunctions, unattended candles, or improperly placed heat sources. SREMA urges the public to take proactive steps to keep homes and families safe during this festive season.
 

Here are 10 Holiday Safety Tips endorsed by the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and the NFPA:

  1. Inspect electrical decorations before use.
    Cracked sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections can create serious shock or fire hazards.

  2. Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
    Plugging too many lights or decorations into one outlet can easily overload circuits and lead to fire.

  3. Never connect more than three strings of incandescent lights.
    This can cause overheating and even blow fuses or start fires.

  4. Keep your tree fresh and watered daily.
    A dry Christmas tree is highly flammable and can ignite in seconds.

  5. Use battery-operated candles instead of real flames.
    Candle-related fires are a leading cause of holiday home fires. Flameless candles provide a safer alternative with the same festive glow.

  6. Keep heat sources at least three feet from decorations.
    Heating equipment too close to holiday decor is a major contributor to seasonal fires.

  7. Protect electrical cords from damage.
    Never run cords under rugs, through doorways, or where they can be pinched by furniture.

  8. Use decorations tested for safety.
    Look for certification marks from reputable laboratories like UL or ETL to ensure your lights and electronics meet safety standards.

  9. Never leave cooking unattended.
    The holidays often mean busy kitchens, but unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires year-round.

  10. Turn off all decorations when going to sleep or leaving the house.
    Nearly half of decoration-related home fires occur between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. Unplug all lights and extinguish candles before bed or heading out.

“We want everyone to enjoy a safe and joyful holiday,” said a spokesperson from SREMA. “Taking just a few minutes to inspect your lights, water your tree, and practice good electrical habits can prevent a tragedy.”

SREMA also reminds the public that smoke alarms should be tested monthly and that every household should have an emergency escape plan in place and practiced by all family members.

Fire Prevention Tip: Never leave candles unattended, and always place them on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials.
 
Top Tips for a Fire-Free Season
Top Tips for a Fire-Free Season