Keep your home fire safe as you make things merry and bright

As you celebrate holiday cheer this December, don’t forget to keep fire safety in mind when decorating.

“Try not to block your exits, like a doorway or something with your tree,” said Radcliff Deputy Fire Marshal Tommy Crane. “Obviously, we like to put our trees in front of the windows so that everybody driving by can see them, things like that, but try to make sure your main exits are not blocked.”

Be sure to also make sure larger decorations and outdoor decorations are not potentially blocking possible exits.

Fire officials recommend using candle warmers rather than open flames, but if you do light a candle use caution.

“If you are using a candle with an open flame, make sure you keep it about 12 inches from anything else,” Crane said. “Keep it on a stable surface away from pets and kids where they can knock them down.”

If you have not done so already, make sure to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.