A lit candle placed dangerously close to a tree branch and a red ornament, highlighting a potential fire hazard.

Surrey Fire Services wants to remind everyone about the fire hazards that have the potential to cause home fires during the holiday season.

December 6, 2024
Media Release

Surrey, B.C. – Surrey Fire Services wants to remind everyone about the fire hazards that have the potential to cause home fires during the holiday season. A little caution goes a long way. Here are some safety tips on how to keep your home safe during the holidays and beyond. 
 
Trees/Decorative Lights: Trees and decorative lights can catch fire quickly. Real trees can dry out, making them highly flammable. Artificial trees, particularly those with built-in wiring, can overheat and cause electrical fires, especially if lights are old and damaged.

Safety Tips: 

  • Water trees daily and keep them away from heat sources like fireplaces and heaters.
  • Don't overload outlets or extension cords and inspect lights for damage before use.  

Candles: Candles can be a fire hazard if left unattended or placed close to flammable objects. 

Safety Tips: 

  • Keep candles out of reach of children and pets, never leave them unattended, and extinguish them when leaving the room or before going to bed.
  • Place candles on stable, non-flammable surfaces away from curtains and decorations. 

Cooking and Baking: Preparing holiday meals often includes increased use of stovetops, ovens, and kitchen appliances, which can lead to kitchen fires if not carefully managed. 

Safety Tips: 

  • Never leave cooking unattended, even for a minute! Use timers as reminders to check your dishes when they’re done.
  • Keep flammable items, like dish towels and oven mitts, away from heat sources. 

Smoke Alarm Reminder: A working smoke alarm is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to protect your family in the event of a house fire. INSTALL smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, TEST smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button and REPLACE all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or stop responding when tested. 

Keep an Accessible Fire Extinguisher: Have a fire extinguisher near areas with open flames, such as the kitchen or fireplace, and check it regularly. 

For more information about Surrey's HomeSafe Inspection programs, visit surrey.ca/HomeSafe