Incline Village, NV — As families gather and homes fill with festive decorations, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is reminding residents that winter holidays bring increased fire risks. Simple safety steps can prevent tragedies and help ensure a joyful, fire-safe season.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), winter holiday activities—particularly decorations, candles, and cooking—create seasonal hazards that can be significantly reduced through awareness and preventive measures.
Holiday Decorating Safety
The NFPA notes that more than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles, and half occur because decorations are placed too close to heat sources. NLTFPD encourages residents to keep the following precautions in mind:
- Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
- Keep lit candles away from decorations and anything that can burn.
- Use indoor and outdoor lights as intended by the manufacturer.
- Replace light strings with worn or broken cords or loose connections.
- Use clips instead of nails to avoid damaging cords.
- Keep decorations away from windows, doors, and exits.
Holiday Entertaining Safety
With guests visiting and kitchens bustling, residents should also:
- Test smoke alarms and review the home fire escape plan with guests.
- Keep children and pets away from lit candles and cooking areas.
- Store matches and lighters securely and out of reach.
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
- Ask smokers to smoke outdoors and provide deep, sturdy ashtrays; wet cigarette butts before disposal.
Before Heading Out or Going to Bed
- Blow out all candles when leaving a room or going to sleep.
- Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
A Message from NLTFPD
“These simple steps can make all the difference during a time of year when fire hazards increase,” said Fire Marshal James. “Our goal is to support a safe and joyful season for every household in Incline Village and Crystal Bay.”
For more heating safety information and resources, visit:
https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/winter-holidays#fire-facts
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