Keep the following prevention tips in mind for safe decorating during the festive season.

Christmas tree

Choose an artificial tree because it is less likely to catch fire than a natural tree.

If you choose a natural tree

• Select a freshly cut tree, whose needles do not shed easily.
• Cut the trunk at an angle and place it in a container of water. Water it on a daily basis.
• Install the tree more than 1 m away from all heat sources (electric baseboard, heater, fireplace, etc.).
• Unplug the Christmas lights when the tree begins to dry out.
• Check with your municipality before disposing of your tree; many have tree collections that turn trees into compost.

Decorative lights

• Choose lights that are certified by a recognized organization such as the CSA or ULC.
• Choose low-heat-emitting bulbs such as LED bulbs.
• Examine your lights before installing them and discard any that are defective, desiccated, or cracked.
• Make sure your replacement bulbs have the same voltage as the old ones.
• Avoid putting indoor-use decorative lights outdoors, or vice versa.
• Plug any item used outdoors into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
• Never overload the electrical system.
• Use a timer or always unplug your decorative lights when you leave home or go to bed.
• After the festive season, bring in outdoor lights to prevent damage from the weather and sun. Decorative lights are not designed for long-term use.

Extension cord

• If you must use extension cords, choose models approved by a recognized organization such as the CSA or ULC.
• Avoid cords that are too long and would need to be coiled, as the cable may overheat and cause arcing.
• If you must use an extension cord for your outdoor decorations, make sure it is designed for outdoor use.
• Do not overload outlets and extension cords. Use a power strip instead.
• Do not hide your extension cords under a rug or carpet. The weight of people walking on them and the friction they cause can damage the cord and increase the risk of fire.
• Do not leave an extension cord in a doorway. The insulation of the cord could be damaged if the door closes on it.
• Use only one extension cord at a time. Do not connect extension cords end to end.