Morris Holiday Guide 2026 Final - Flipbook - Page 13
MERRY, BRIGHT
& SAFE!
YOUR HOLIDAY SAFETY GUIDE 2026
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
POLICE DEPARTMENT SAFETY TIPS
Christmas Tree Safety
Holiday Shopping Safety
• If using a live tree, keep it well-watered to prevent it from drying
out and becoming a 昀椀re hazard. A dry tree can catch fire quickly.
• Keep trees at least three feet away from heat sources like
fireplaces, space heaters, or candles.
• Ensure all light strands and electrical cords used on trees are in
good condition (no frayed wires), and unplug them before going
to bed or leaving the house.
• When shopping, park in well-lit areas and stay aware of your
surroundings.
• Avoid leaving packages or valuables in plain view in your vehicle.
Place them in the trunk or keep them hidden.
• Shop with a friend or in groups, and avoid carrying large amounts
of cash. Use credit or debit cards where possible.
Holiday Lights & Electrical Safety
• Try to be home for deliveries or arrange for a neighbor to receive
your package if you won’t be there.
• If possible, request delivery services to leave packages in a less
visible location, such as a side door.
• Consider using security cameras or doorbell cameras to deter
thieves and report suspicious activity to your local police
department.
• Use lights that are labeled for indoor or outdoor use as
appropriate. Never overload electrical outlets, and use a surge
protector.
• Replace any broken or damaged holiday light sets, and avoid
running electrical cords under carpets or rugs, as this can cause
overheating.
• Turn off all holiday lights when going to bed or leaving the house
to avoid electrical 昀椀res.
Candle Safety
• Always place candles in sturdy holders and away from flammable
materials such as curtains or decorations.
• Blow out candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Consider using 昀氀ameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
• Keep lit candles out of reach of children and pets.
Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
• Ensure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are
installed on every level of the home, especially near sleeping
areas.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, and
replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Avoid using ovens or stoves as space heaters. Properly ventilate
homes when using a fireplace or space heaters.
Home Heating Safety
• Keep anything that can burn (like curtains, furniture, or bedding)
at least three feet away from space heaters.
• Never leave portable heaters on when leaving the house or going
to sleep.
• Ensure that chimneys and fireplaces are cleaned and inspected
annually to prevent creosote buildup, which can cause chimney
fires.
• Use a sturdy screen in front of your 昀椀replace to stop embers from
escaping and ensure that 昀椀res are fully out before leaving the
room or going to bed.
Package Theft Prevention
Travel Safety
• If traveling for the holidays, notify a trusted neighbor or family
member who can keep an eye on your property.
• Make your home appear occupied while you're away by using
timers for lights and stopping mail or newspaper delivery.
• Ensure all windows and doors are locked before leaving. Doublecheck garage doors as well.
Winter Driving Safety
• Slow down and leave extra space between vehicles in icy or
snowy conditions.
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, food,
water, a flashlight, and first aid supplies.
• Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving to ensure
good visibility.
Home Security During the Holidays
• Lock all doors and windows when leaving your home, even if
you're just going out for a short time.
• Be cautious when sharing vacation plans or gifts on social media
to avoid alerting potential thieves of your absence or valuable
items.
H A P P Y H O L I D AY S T O Y O U & Y O U R S , F R O M U S & O U R S !
NELSON PUBLISHING, INC. | 2026 NELSON MULTIMEDIA HOLIDAY GUIDE
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