Prevent Commercial Property Damage This Holiday Season

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent commercial fire damage by keeping all open flames at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.

Between November 1st - February 1st, there are over 20 religious holidays from all around the world. When we think about holiday fire safety, we don’t often consider the risks in a commercial setting. According to iii.org, decorations like Christmas lights are a reason or concern. They state, “Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in two out of five (40 percent) of the home Christmas tree structure fires.” This statistic is specifically for residential properties, but this could easily be applied in a commercial setting.  

Live Or Artificial Christmas Tree

If you’re decorating your office for Christmas this year, you may have already decided between a live or artificial tree. If you're still contemplating what you want, consider these potential fire hazards. It may help you make that determination. 

Live Christmas Trees

Live Christmas trees come with a myriad of risks. If they are not properly cared for live trees can cause a devastating amount of property damage. They ignite quickly and create a lot of heat. That’s why you should keep them away from heat sources like heating vents and lamps. 

Artificial Trees  

In general Artificial Christmas trees are safer. Modern trees are made from fire-resistant materials. Note that fire resistance doesn’t mean fireproof. Damaged lights can ignite the tree from electrical malfunctions. You still want to keep it away from heat sources like fireplaces and space heaters. Overall if you’re picking your tree based on safety, artificial trees are the way to go.  

Safety Measures

Before decorating your office with any holiday lights, be sure to check them. After a year of disuse, anything can happen. A mouse could chew through the cords, the plastic covering could dry rot, or lights could have been smashed when packing them away last year. You never know that's why it’s smart to inspect all electrical decorations before putting them up this holiday season. 

Traditionally Christmas trees were decorated with candles. Whether your tree is live or artificial this is not recommended. USFA states that more than 1 in 3 fires that ignite in the winter are caused by candles igniting decorations. If lighting candles are part of your holiday ceremonies, keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn to prevent fire damage.  

As we get together to celebrate the Holidays, SERVPRO of Northwest and Northeast Cincinnati wishes a blessed season. We hope these Fire safety tips prevent any property damage to your businesses. If any accidents should happen, remember, “we are always here to help.”