UpDate - Vol. 11, No. 14, Page 4
December 12, 1991
Do's & Don'ts: Holiday safety tips

     Good common sense is the key to making a decision about the
type and quantity of holiday decorations, according to Bernie
Alexander, fire prevention specialist in the Department of
Occupational Health and Safety.
     Following are a few do's and don'ts for a safe holiday season:

Do:
     *    Use flame-retardant decorations when practical.
     *    Use UL-listed lights and appliances.
     *    Use low-wattage bulbs on light strings.
     *    Use flame-retardant trees instead of live trees, if
               possible.
     *    Use copious amounts of water with a live tree.
     *    Keep the amount of decorations to a minimum.
     *    For more information, call Department of Occupation
               Health and Safety at 451-8475.

Don't:
     *    Block or obscure exit passageways.
     *    Secure decorations to sprinkler piping, smoke detectors,
               exit signs or any other life safety items.
     *    Use open flame devices such as candles.
     *    Use spotlights to accent a decoration.
     *    Place electrical cords under carpet.
     *    Place cords in a walkway.
     *    Put up a live tree more than 14 days before Dec. 25.