Montérégie: vigilance towards fires during the Holidays

As the holidays approach, local fire departments are reminding residents to be vigilant when it comes to decorating their homes.

Risks include fires linked to Christmas trees and decorative lights. “It’s never comical, it’s always dramatic,” remarks Frédéric Cyr, head of the Marieville Fire Department, regarding the unfortunate events that take place during the holiday season.

“We regularly get calls for that,” says Claude Fortin, assistant director at the Chambly Fire Department. However, he adds that the situation is less dramatic than before, due to the awareness that is gaining ground among the population.

Dry fir trees

“What we see most often are natural fir trees which become very dry,” maintains Frédéric Cyr. He suggests setting the base of the tree in a bucket of sand and adding water, making sure to refill it daily to keep the thorns moist.

Fire services also recommend installing the tree more than one meter from any heat source (electric baseboard, heater, fireplace, candle, etc.). “You must choose a location away from exterior doors and stairs so as not to hinder evacuation in the event of an emergency,” they remind.

Turn off the lights

It is strongly suggested to turn off decorative lights before going to bed or leaving the home. Using a timer to automate the shutdown is encouraged. “We are seeing more and more LED lighting that does not emit heat,” describes Mr. Cyr. He points out that since part of the population switched to light-emitting diodes, the damage has been reduced. The Marieville fire chief encourages people to choose products certified by a recognized organization, such as CSA or ULC.

Multiple connection

Frédéric Cyr points out the importance of not overloading the electrical circuit by plugging too many lights into the same socket. This can cause overheating. “We often buy this at the store cheap. It doesn’t meet safety standards, it’s not approved,” he says. He mentions that it is better to use a power bar rather than a series of extension cords.

Extension cords

Both fire experts emphasize that extension cords should never be rolled up, hidden under a rug or passed under a front door. Pressure, friction, or any other factor that may damage the cord and its insulation increases the risk of causing a short circuit or electrical arc, which can result in a fire.

Frédéric Cyr concludes by affirming that, from now on, insurers are being added to the group of advisors in order to raise awareness among the population against this sometimes unconscious negligence.