With the holiday season and colder temperatures upon us, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs reminds everyone of the increased risk for home fires.

Common holiday hazards such as unattended candles, space heaters, damaged lights, and dry Christmas trees significantly increase the risk of residential fires this time of year.

“It is vital that all Michiganders follow basic fire safety tips to help keep friends and family safe and avoid tragedy this holiday season,” said State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer. “A dry Christmas tree is extremely flammable, and these types of fires can turn deadly within seconds, allowing little time for escape.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the risk of residential fires caused by candles peaks during the holidays, especially on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Many of these fires are caused by unattended candles, often left burning when people fall asleep or leave their homes without extinguishing them.

Here are some holiday fire prevention safety tips:

Christmas Trees

— Check the water level every day.

— Keep candles, space heaters, and other flammable materials away.

— Do not use lights with worn or tattered cords.

— Unplug lights before leaving the house or going to sleep.

Space Heaters

— Keep a clear space of three feet around the heater.

— Never sleep with your space heater on; utilize only when you are awake.

— Unplug the heater when leaving the room.

Candles

— Keep away from Christmas trees, decorations, curtains, and furniture that can catch fire.

— Always keep candles up high to prevent them from getting knocked over by children and pets.

— Never leave lit candles unattended.

As fire fatalities continue to climb, it is important to remember that fires can happen to anyone at any time. Escaping a fire in less than two minutes is only possible with working smoke alarms, closed doors between you and the fire, and practicing your escape plan. Families need to develop and regularly practice a fire escape plan.

For additional fire safety information, go to https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bfs/miprevention.