Henrico Fire chief shares holiday decorating mistakes that could burn your house down
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With Thanksgiving approaching, many people are already planning their Christmas decorations.
Henrico Fire Battalion Chief Doug Reynolds emphasizes the importance of safety before stringing lights, decorating trees and preparing holiday meals.
"So you don't get a home visit from the Henrico Fire Department," Reynolds said.
The first step in holiday safety is inspecting your lights before hanging them.
"When we pulled ours out, I had one set that was half working and half not working, so for me, throw them away. They are inexpensive. I want you to look at the wires. If they are frayed, broken lightbulbs, throw that thing away; it is not worth gambling your family for a $5 string of lights," Reynolds said.
While candles and greenery create beautiful holiday scenes, they pose significant fire risks. Reynolds recommends maintaining a 12-inch circle of safety around any open flames.
Battery-operated candles offer the safest alternative to traditional candles, especially in homes with pets or children who might accidentally knock them over.
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