Fire Bureau Urges Caution During Holiday Celebrations

With the holiday season nearing an end, the Howell Fire Bureau is reminding residents to be careful while celebrating one of the most festive times of the year. 

Chief Robert Hotmar of the Howell Fire Bureau sad fire safety should be a priority during this time of celebration. "While it's a wonderful time of the year, it's also a time to be extremely careful that you don't lose your belongings, your home, or your holiday celebrations," he said.

From Christmas trees to menorahs, there are lots of things people can do to stay safe and keep their celebrations going right into 2012. According to information sent out by the bureau that starts with picking out the perfect tree. 

For those families who are waiting until the last minute to find just the right tree, the fire bureau recommends one where the needles are "green and hard to pull back from the branches." Old trees, the information said, can be spotted by bouncing the tree on the ground. A tree where too many needles fall off is an old one and also a more likely fire hazard. 

Once you find the right tree and bring it into your house, the fire bureau said they should not be put close to a heat source like a fireplace or heat vent. They also recommend not leaving the tree up for more than two weeks to keep it fresh and vibrant. 

Another possible fire hazard during the holidays is the presence of candles. The Fire Bureau said more candle fires start in houses during the December than the other 11 months of the year. Candles, they say, should not be put near the Christmas trees or decorations. They should also not be placed where they can be touched or moved with an accidental touch.

Monmouth County Fire Marshal Henry Stryker III also urged caution when using candles. "By keeping in mind some fire safety basics, residents can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire statistic," he said.

During this time of year the fire bureau recommends not using lit candles altogether. "If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down." The candles should also not be left lit when leaving the house.  

Monmouth County Freeholder Deputy Director John P. Curley urged residents all over the area to be careful during this time of year. "Far too often we hear about families who are displaced, injured or killed during the holidays because of fire," he said. "These are tragedies that can be avoided by following these important tips."

Once the holidays are done, the township will begin Christmas tree pickup on Jan. 9 as long as the weather cooperates. Residents are encouraged to put their trees at the curb during the weekend of Jan. 7. Any tree with lights or ornaments still attached will not be picked up. Trees can also be brought to the recycling center on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting in January.