When you’re caught in the hustle and bustle that occur with the holidays, it’s easy to lose track of details such as safety. Don’t skip out on these things—they could lead to unwanted life-or-death situations.

Decorations

• Make sure your artificial tree is labeled “fire resistant.”
• Remove about 2 inches of the trunk of your live tree to reveal fresh wood for better water absorption. Water it and take it out if your home when it is dry.
• Leave 3 feet between your tree and radiators, fireplaces and other heating sources. Don’t cover doorways.
• Use outdoor lights outdoors and indoor lights indoors.
• Select the proper ladder when hanging lights.
• Get new light sets that have broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.
• Pay attention to the number of light sets that can be plugged into one socket.
• Don’t nail, tack or stress wiring when hanging lights.
• Keep plugs off the ground and away from puddles.
• When you depart your home or go to bed, shut off all lights and decorations; Even better, set your lights to go on and off by a timer.

Fireplaces and Candles

• Maintain and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year.
• Don’t let fireplaces or candles burn when you are sleeping or there’s no supervision.
• When running a fire, put a screen on the fireplace.
• Wreaths, wrapping paper or trees shouldn’t be burned in the fireplace.
• Set up flameless candles near flammable items.
• Keep lighters, matches and candles inaccessible to children.

Stay safe and efficient with a Home Energy Assessment

Ensure everything is running smoothly and efficiently at your home. Sign up by calling (210) 353-2SAV (2728) or visit residential.savenow.cpsenergy.com/assessment.