With residential fires spiking during the festive season, the Las Cruces Fire Department is urging the community to embrace safety measures to avoid holiday tragedies. The department's guidelines, intended to prevent house fires during this time of cheer and celebration, are particularly critical given a recent incident. A fire on Crystal Place badly damaged a mobile home, a stark reminder of what can occur when safety is not a priority.

The guidelines outlined by the fire department are straightforward yet essential. First and foremost, choosing a freshly cut Christmas tree is vital, its green needles and sticky trunk are signs of vitality and, more importantly, of moisture, which equals less flammability. According to the fire crew, a dry tree is a fire waiting to happen, as easily shed needles indicate. Another key piece of advice, often overlooked, is to keep the tree well-hydrated and away from heat sources such as vents or fireplaces. After the holidays, trees should be taken to a recycling center, not disposed of in a fireplace, an act which could have dangerous repercussions.

Inspection of holiday lights is another non-negotiable in the Las Cruces Fire Department's recommendations. Frayed wires or worn bulbs aren't just an inconvenience; they're potential fire starters. Incandescent lights, which generate heat, should be used with caution, especially near flammable materials like tree branches or trim decorations. Overloading electrical outlets is a frequent misstep during the holiday light shows. "In most cases, outlets are capable of powering only three light strands," as noted by the City of Las Cruces, highlighting the importance of not partnering excessive demand with limited electrical capacity.

Unplugging holiday lights when not at home, choosing non-flammable decorations, and avoiding the burning of wrapping paper are all pieces of advice shared by the department. Moreover, they emphasize the necessity of functional smoke detectors, an often-underestimated first line of defense against the dangers of fires. Decor considerations are not moot either; whether you opt for an artificial or metallic Christmas tree, flame retardancy is a must. And for the romantics who can’t resist the allure of candlelit ambiance, remember: a secure holder and a strategic position far from anything combustible are imperative.