Merry Christmas & Fire Safety tips during the Holiday Season

12/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Wishes All a Happy & Safe Holiday Season!

The holiday season is upon us, and as we gather around the warmth of our homes to celebrate Christmas, it's essential to prioritize safety. While twinkling lights, crackling fires, and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere, they can also pose potential fire hazards. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of a safe and joyous holiday season. Here are some valuable fire safety tips to ensure your Christmas is merry and bright for all the right reasons.

1. Mindful Decorating

Tip: Choose decorations wisely, opting for flame-resistant or flame-retardant materials. Keep decorations, especially those made of paper or fabric, away from heat sources such as candles and heaters.

2. Responsible Lighting

Tip: Inspect all Christmas lights before hanging them. Replace any damaged or frayed wires, and avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords. Turn off decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed.

3. Cautious Candle Use

Tip: Consider using flameless LED candles instead of traditional candles. If you choose traditional candles, keep them in sturdy holders on a stable surface, away from flammable items.

4. Smart Tree Care

Tip: If you have a live Christmas tree, water it regularly to prevent it from drying out. Keep it away from heat sources and ensure that the tree stand is stable. Dry trees are highly flammable. Proper hydration reduces the risk of your beautiful tree becoming a fire hazard.

5. Fireplace Safety

Tip: If you're enjoying a roaring fire in the fireplace, never leave it unattended. Use a sturdy screen to keep sparks contained, and have the chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

6. Emergency Preparedness

Tip: Ensure everyone in your household knows the location of fire exits and how to use fire extinguishers. Develop and practice a fire escape plan, especially if you have guests during the holidays.

This holiday season, let's prioritize the safety and well-being of our loved ones. By following these fire safety tips from SERVPRO, you can create a festive and secure environment for a Christmas filled with joy and cherished memories. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna would like to wish you and your family a safe, happy, and cozy holiday season!

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Disasters Happen. Being Prepared is Essential!

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month.

September is National Preparedness Month.

Being prepared for disasters is crucial to the safety of you and your loved ones. If your family or business is not equipped with an emergency plan now is the time to make one.

The American Red Cross and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security educates and empowers Americans to take some simple steps to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies, including natural disasters. Develope an escape plan for your home or business and include all routes of escape. Indicate where fire extinguishers are located, where all windows and doors are located that can be used to escape.

In this plan indicate the location of emergency supplies, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, first aid kits as well as emergency contacts and where utility shut off points are. In any fire escaping to a safe area is the most important thing you can do.  

In addition to this plan always make sure household members or business employees know exactly where to meet in case of fire and other disasters. Practice these emergency evacuation drills at least two times each year as well as testing all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.

Being prepared is essential for your safety and will benefit everyone in your family or business if you prepare now. It's easy to prepare an emergency kit and build a checklist of what you need. We at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can provide an Emergency Ready Profile if you are uncertain on how to establish one. We're just one phone call away to helping you prepare for a disaster before it happens.