As the holiday season nears, area public safety officials are reminding residents to be safe while traveling on the roads and while decorating their homes and Christmas trees.
“December is an exciting time where almost every home on the block is accented with decorations and seasonal lighting,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for the National Fire Protection Association. “Though decorations such as candles or Christmas trees certainly spread holiday cheer, it is important to follow basic safety steps so celebrations go off without a hitch.”
Myrtle Beach Fire Lt. Christian Sliker said colder weather also increases home safety concerns with improper use of heating devices.
Law enforcrmrnt officers from around the region set up a traffic safety checkpoint on Robert Grissom Parkway, Wednesday night, but after the heavy rain and thunderstorm arrived they decided o postpone it for the safety of all involved.
11/16/11
Photo by Charles Slate
Such fires are often caused by leaving portable space heaters unattended, fueling errors, installation or use flaws of the heaters and placing flammable items too close to the heaters, Sliker said. Residents also should consider cleaning their wood stoves and fireplace chimneys before using them.
Other fire concerns come from the decorations and Christmas trees, according to officials.
State Forestry officials said providing water to a live Christmas tree is vital for it to retain its color, prevent needle droppings and reduce fire risks. Trees should also be kept away from heaters, candles and other devices.
Area emergency officials plan various traffic safety checkpoints in Horry and Georgetown counties in addition to increased patrols by troopers with the S.C. Highway Patrol, who are promoting a new campaign called “Be a SANTA! A Sober All Night Totally Awesome Designated Driver.”
“The high rate of DUIs in this state illustrates why the tagline of the Be a SANTA campaign is so meaningful,” said Leroy Smith, director of the state’s public safety department. “Give the gift of a safe ride home. That is what designated drivers do. They help to ensure those they care about make it home safely and they help to ensure the safety of others on the road as well. And that gift could save someone’s life.”
Drunk driving remains one of the top causes of traffic deaths in the state, according to highway patrol authorities.
Here are some other safety tips for the holiday season:
*Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
*Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
*Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Check the packaging; some lights are only for indoor use.
*Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini light sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
*Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
*Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
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