Holiday season safety tips

As the holiday season approaches, Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) is reminding residents to take simple steps that help prevent fires and keep families safe. 

Winter is a time for celebration, but it is also a time when fire risks rise. Many incidents can be avoided by taking basic precautions in the kitchen, with decorations and when using candles or heating equipment. 

1. Cooking safety
   • Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Unattended cooking remains a leading cause of home fires. 
   • Keep anything that can burn (like oven mitts, dish towels and packaging) away from heat sources. 
   • If a grease fire starts, turn off the burner and slide a lid over the pan. Never use water. 
     
     
2. Decoration and lighting safety
   • Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations.
   • Keep decorations, trees and combustible materials away from candles, fireplaces and space heaters.
   • Inspect all light strings before use. Replace worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections.
   • Use CSA or ULC-certified lights and follow the manufacturer's instructions for how many strands can be connected. 
     
     
3. Candle and open-flame safety
   • Keep lit candles at least one metre away from anything that can burn.
   • Blow out candles when leaving the room or going to bed. 
   • Consider using battery-operated candles as a safer alternative. 
   • Never leave children and pets unattended near lit candles.  
     
     
4. Before leaving home or going to bed
   • Turn off all light strings and holiday decorations. 
   • Keep exits free from decorations, packages, boots or furniture to ensure a quick escape in an emergency.
   • Review and practice your home fire escape plan regularly.

Holiday safety begins with awareness and a few practical steps. For more information on how to keep your home safe this season, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/home-safety/tips-holiday-safety.html

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.