Westmont, Illinois - Date Issued: November 9, 2020
The Westmont Fire Department and the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) would like to remind residents to keep fire safety in mind when putting up seasonal or holiday decorations. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), from 2014-2018, an average of 770 home structure fires began with decorations per year across the nation. More than two of every five of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment. More than one-third of these fires were started by candles.
“Decorating for the holidays can make our homes look festive, but they also pose an increased fire risk,” said Fire Chief Steve Riley. “Check to make sure all smoke alarms are working in your home. When decorating for any season, think fire safety first by keeping decorations away from any open flames, don’t block exits from the home, and consider using battery-operated candles to reduce the risk of fire.”
Keep the following fire safety tips in mind to have a safe and festive holiday season.
- Do not connect multiple extension cords to each other.
- Do not use extension cords if the cord or wires are cut or frayed.
- Do not overload electrical cords or electrical sockets.
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Contact: Larry McIntyre
Village of Westmont
Communications Director/Public Information Officer
630-417-0280
lmcintyre@westmont.il.gov
