For many Canadians the holiday season means a Christmas tree, lights, candles, food and entertaining.

This festive environment brings fire hazards at a time of year when people are more likely to be indoors.

“After you take the proper precautions the key is to stay attentive to possible hazards,” stated Emile Therien, President of the Canada Safety Council. “People tend to let their guard down when they’re drinking and socializing. That could give a burning candle, deep frying or smoking the chance to cause a major fire.”

The council offered tips during National Home Fire Safety Week (November 24-30) to help prevent fires during the holiday season, from setting up the tree and decorating the home, to suggestions for gifts to enhance home fire safety.

Some tips the council offers include:

 buy a freshly cut tree with a high moisture content,

 do not use metallic ornaments because they may become a shock hazard if they make contact with defective wiring,

 use the proper lights for the environment; indoor lights should not be used outdoors because they lack weatherproof conditions and outdoor lights burn too hot indoors,

 put candles in a sturdy holder on a stable surface away from drafts, curtains, children and pets,

 never burn gift wrappings, boxes, cartons or other types of packing in the fireplace because they burn quickly and generate too much heat,

 do not overload electrical outlets

There are many more tips offered by the council, visit www.safetycouncil. org for more information.