Safety tips for the holidays

  • Published
  • By compiled staff reports
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  What do Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa have in common? Fire. That's right. Each of these holidays includes the lighting of some sort of fire, whether it's to cook a turkey or light a candle.

While most fires are lit on purpose, it is the up to you to ensure that fires aren't started on accident. Fires, health hazards and indulging a little too much in holiday "spirits" can put a damper on festivities.

Here are some tips we've compiled over the past few years to help keep you and your family safe, happy and healthy during this holiday season.

When decorating:
- Never use lighted candles near trees, curtains/drapes, or with any potentially flammable item.
- When displaying a live tree, cut off about two inches off the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand. Keep the stand filled with water so the tree does not dry out quickly.
- Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.
- If using an artificial tree and Christmas lights, make sure they are tested and labeled as fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Label.
- Only use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections.
- Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Unplug extension cords when not in use.

When hosting:
- When preparing a holiday meal for friends and family be sure to wash hands, utensils, the sink and anything else that has come in contact with raw poultry. Keep in mind a stuffed bird takes longer to cook.
- Never defrost food at room temperature. Thaw it in the refrigerator, in cold water or in the microwave.
- Do not leave cooking food unattended or place towels or other combustible materials on the burners.
- If you're frying a turkey, let it thaw properly before frying and be aware of overheating the oil when frying the turkey.
- Be a smart party host or guest and be sensible about alcoholic drinks. If you're off base, you're not allowed to serve alcoholic beverages. If you're on base, make sure you have a designated driver or call a cab.

If you have any safety questions, contact the Kadena Fire Prevention Flight at 634-4500 or the Kadena Fire Department at 634-6011. If you need emergency medical or fire assistance, call 911 on base, 119 off base, or 098-934-5911 from a cell phone.