Have a Safe Christmas With These Holiday Safety Tips

So many of the holiday safety tips you've heard over the years are the same ones you've heard year after year. However, there's a reason and of course it's because they still ring true.

Candles still continue to be a culprit during the holiday season as cooking, heating and open flames remain the leading causes of Minnesota fires this time of year. Use flameless candles when decorating and of course keep them away from any type of flammable material. Two of every five home decoration fires are started by candles. Nearly half of holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

Make sure exit paths and exits are clear of holiday decorations and clutter. Avoid extension cords whenever possible and limit what you plug into your power strips.

This brings us to another leading cause of fires and that's cooking. As we all should know by now, don't leave food cooking on the stove unattended. Easy enough to remember but so often there are distractions. In case of a fire on the stove top, cover it and don't throw water on it.

Here's a newer issue to keep in mind this holiday season and that is turkey frying. Since 2002 there have been 168 fires associated with turkey fryers and 672 injuries. It's recommended that you place your fryer at least 10 feet away from the house. Place on flat ground. Make sure your turkey is thawed and dried. Also, keep a fire extinguisher close at hand.

Just a few things to keep in mind this Christmas season.