During times of celebration, there are common fire safety issues that all communities experience. Keep these safety considerations in mind this Chinese New Year and Vietnamese New Year (February 5).
Celebrations mean cooking and sharing food. Cooking related fires remain the main cause of fires during holidays and celebrations.
When cooking:
- Most fires start from cooking left unattended – use a timer, never leave when cooking, especially when cooking with oil.
- If a pot is on fire, cover it with a lid or flat metal pan.
If using incense and candles:
- Use battery powered candles instead of wax candles to be extra safe.
- Keep incense and candles away from drapes, pillows, bedding and anything that can burn!
- Burn incense or candles in a sturdy, heat resistant container.
- Put incense and candles out before leaving the room or before going to bed.
Smoke/Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms:
- Install smoke and CO alarms on every level of your home
- Smoke alarms should never be disabled. Use a dish towel to stop the alarm from beeping if cooking smoke sets it off.
- Test the smoke alarm by pushing the test button every 2 months. Replace battery yearly.
- When the smoke alarm goes off, that is the signal to follow the escape plan. Get out and call 9-1-1 from a safe location.