From your kitchen to the backyard, be careful around fire.
Some winter fire safety tips:
- Enjoy candles with caution and always blow them out before you go to sleep. Keep candles at least a foot away from anything that could catch on fire. Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle. Battery-powered candles are safest.
- Check electrical cords for all plug-in holiday lights. Replace damaged ones. Any cord used for outdoor lights should be designed for that purpose. Use clips, not nails, to hang lights. Nails can rip cords.
- Don’t leave the kitchen if you’re cooking on the stovetop. Never leave home with your oven on. Don’t use an oven to heat your house.
- Follow local regulations for fireworks or enjoy a professional show. Don’t use sparklers or fireworks near dry grass, brush, or other flammable materials. Keep a water-filled bucket or connected hose nearby. Never aim or throw fireworks at anyone.
Have a question about insurance? Call TDI’s Help Line at 800-252-3439 or visit tdi.texas.gov.
These columns by the Texas Department of Insurance are available for use in publications. They may be edited as needed and used without copyright. For questions, contact TDI media relations at 512-676-6595 or MediaRelations@tdi.texas.gov.