The holiday season in New Orleans brings festive traditions but also an increased risk of fire hazards. Fire departments from New Orleans, St. Bernard Parish, Kenner, Jefferson Parish, Plaquemines Parish, St. Tammany Fire Protection District #1, and Westwego, along with the Louisiana State Fire Marshal, are promoting safety during the holiday and winter seasons, according to the New Orleans Fire Department release on the official New Orleans website.
It's a time when families come together to celebrate holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza, and as people get into the holiday spirit, local fire officials are emphasizing the importance of observing safety measures. Many devastating fires have occurred in the metro area from holiday-related activities. The joy of the season is palpable, but so is the potential for dangers - from decorative lights to candles, and not least, the onset of the heating season.
To prioritize safety, authorities have outlined precautions to prevent accidents during the holiday season. It is important to ensure that Christmas trees are fresh, as dry trees are more likely to catch fire. Residents are advised to buy fresh flocked trees treated with an approved flame-retardant material or treat the trees themselves. Additionally, trees should be kept away from heat sources and should not block exits.
Approved lighting strings should be used, specifically those tested by recognized labs like Underwriters Laboratories. Worn-out lights with frayed wires, broken connections, or cracked plugs should be replaced immediately. The City of New Orleans advises against overloading extension cords or outlets and recommends unplugging tree lights when not at home or sleeping. It is also important not to hang electrical lights on metallic trees to avoid shocks or fires. "Do not use candles or any other open flame on or near tree," the safety message states.
At the end of the season, the site reminds residents to remove their Christmas trees promptly, following garbage collection guidelines, to reduce fire hazards. More information on these tips and others can be found on the New Orleans website.
