Fire Knows No Holiday

            Important safety tips for a happy and safe holiday season:

• Use only Underwriters Laboratory (UL) approved lights and cords.
• Use only approved outdoor lights for outdoor use and make sure they are weatherproof.
• Lights should be thoroughly inspected prior to installation.
• Miniature or indoor lights generate less heat and will not dry out the tree as much as larger lights.
• Always unplug all lights and blow out all candles before leaving the house or going to bed.
• Never use candles near trees or windows.
• Never dispose of trees, decorations or wrappings in the fireplace.
• If you choose to use a natural, cut Christmas tree, select only the freshest.
• Needles should bend, not break, when folded.
• Keep the stand full of water and check it daily.
• Keep the tree away from heat sources and heater vents.
• Remove the tree promptly after the holidays or once the needles begin to fall.