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HomeMy WebLinkAboutLakeshore Advance, 2013-12-18, Page 21Wednesday, December 18, 2013 • Lakeshore Advance 21 ChthThia Creet7igs Don't let your Christmas tree lead to tragedy this season How to prevent accidental fire during the holidays (NC)— It's the Christmas holiday season, our most treasured time of the year. It's a time of celebration, joy and sharing time with family and friends. Unfortunately, this •)portant time can also be ,..,e marked by tragedy if pre- cautions are not taken against accidental fire. According to the Canadian Safety Council, every year about 400 Canadi- ans lose their lives in an acci- dental household fire. In fact, it's during the holiday season that the number of deaths caused by accidental house- hold fires is at its highest. Patrice De Luca, vice presi- dent of marketing and busi- ness development for Reli- ance Protectron Security Services, says the major cul- prit for this significant increase is the famed Christ- mas tree. "You need to take every possible precaution to minimize the risks of fire, especially if you choose a natural tree," he added. "lire is one of the greatest threats to your family and home. People do not realize the emotional toll a fire can take, even if there is no Toss of life:' I lere are safety tips to con- sider from Protectron's free "Saving Lives Program": • If possible, consider an artificial tree. 'they are much safer and cleaner. • Leave the tree outside until you're ready to decorate. • The tree stand should hold at least 1 gallon of water. It's crucial to check the water level every day. • Detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide should be installed at strate- gic locations - your kitchen, stairwell, bedroom hallways and other high -traf- fic household areas. Monitored smoke detectors can save lives by having oper- ators standing by 24-7 and dispatching emergency services if required (for example if fire occurs while sleeping). . • Keep the tree away from floor heat- ers, fireplaces, or other heat sources. • Use only CSA -listed lights, and no more than three strands linked together. • Use miniature lights -which have cool -burning bulbs. • 1'urn off the Christmas lights when you sleep, or if you leave your home for very long. • Examine light strings each year, dis- card worn ones. • Fasten the bulbs securely and point the sockets down to avoid moisture build up. • Avoid overloading wall outlets and extension cords. • I lave an operable fire extinguisher readily available. • Practice an escape plan at least once a year. Make sure the whole family is involved. • Finally, make sure to dispose of your tree properly at the end of the season. Protectron's "Saving Lives Program" is offered free to families considering home security solutions. More information on the program or 011 fire safety and home security is available online at www.pro- tectron.com. www.newscallada.com THERFS \( 1'1,.1('11; LIKE S011El'ti FOR THE 1IOI,II).\l'S! KID'S HELP PHONE FREE EMERGENCY CALL 1.800.6684868 TOLL FREE 24 HOURS A DAY RUNAWAY, SICK, IN DANGER, IN TROUBLE fe hrii ma app New Year Thank you for your continued support from the Ihrig Family and S ; at We want you to know just how much we appreciate your generous support, and wish you all a very merry and bright holiday season. between (inuui !lend & llayflelc on Hwy. 21 519.236.7707 essenIand.com 55 Main St. E., Grand Bend 519-238-8944 Kimberley Kennedy & Robert Green Owners/Operators, (;rand Bend Sobeys & Staj'