Hartford, CT — As Connecticut residents prepare to celebrate the holiday season, Fire Safe CT, a partnership with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit, and the Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital, is reminding the public to take extra precautions to prevent fires and burn injuries at home.
The holiday season is a time of increased fire risk due to the use of decorations, candles, holiday lights, space heaters, and increased cooking activity. To raise awareness, Fire Safe CT has released a new holiday fire safety video featuring State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert and Fire and Life Safety Specialist Michael Kellett, who plays Santa Claus, sharing important safety tips in a fun and engaging way.
“While the holidays are meant to be joyful, they are also one of the most dangerous times of the year when it comes to home fires,” said Volkert. “Simple steps, like watering your Christmas tree daily, using candles safely, and keeping an eye on cooking, can make the difference between a happy holiday and a devastating emergency.”
Christmas trees, cooking fires, and unattended candles are among the leading causes of home fires during the holiday season. Fire Safe CT stresses that prevention and preparedness are key to reducing these incidents.
“We wanted this video to grab people’s attention while still delivering serious life-saving messages,” said Kellett. “If someone remembers even one safety tip because Santa made them smile, then it’s worth it. Fire safety doesn’t have to be scary to be effective.”
The Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit routinely investigates fires that could have been prevented with basic safety practices.
“Every holiday season, we respond to fires that result in significant property damage and, in some cases, serious injuries or loss of life,” said Sergeant Shawn Benoit of the Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit. “Many of these incidents are avoidable. Taking time now to check smoke alarms, inspect holiday decorations, and practice safe heating and cooking habits can save lives.”
Burn injuries are another serious consequence of holiday-related fires and accidents.
“The holidays should be a time for celebration, not a trip to the emergency room,” said Jason Bresky, Trauma and Burn Injury Prevention and Outreach Coordinator at the Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital. “Burn injuries can happen in seconds and have lifelong consequences. Fire safety awareness, especially around children and older adults, is one of the most effective ways to reduce these injuries.”
Fire Safe CT encourages Connecticut residents to:
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Keep natural Christmas trees watered and away from heat sources
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Never leave candles unattended and consider battery-operated alternatives
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Stay in the kitchen while cooking, and know what to do in case of a kitchen fire
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Avoid overloading electrical outlets and inspect holiday lights for damage
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Ensure working smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home
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Practice and review a home fire escape plan with all household members
About Fire Safe CT
Fire Safe CT is a newly launched collaborative Connecticut state initiative aimed at reducing the risk of fire-related tragedies through public education and local support. The effort unites state and local agencies, health care experts, and fire service professionals under a common goal: to protect Connecticut residents and their communities from the dangers of fire.
