Make a fire safety resolution for 2009

Our Opinion

Friday, Jan. 2, 2009

But hanging over the celebrations is the fact that for some Charles County families, 2009 will bring a fire tragedy, a tragedy that could have been prevented.

Two people, a man from Newburg and a man from Waldorf, died in house fires last year. Their families will miss them forever.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office recommends making a fire safety resolution for the New Year this year, and has provided a few tips to help keep state residents safe this year.

Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while cooking. Careless cooking is the leading cause of fire in Maryland; safe cooking and consuming alcoholic beverages don't mix.

Place decorative candles on large, noncombustible secure bases. Place candles away from heavily traveled paths to prevent them being toppled by family, guests, or pets. Avoid leaving lit candles unattended. Consider alternatives to candles for decorative lighting.

When family and friends depart, check the entire home. Wastebaskets, bedding, and upholstered furniture frequently conceal smoldering fires.

Check the condition of natural holiday greenery and cut Christmas trees. As time passes, these decorative items dry out and are more easily ignited. If needles snap when bent, fall easily from branches or the tree no longer absorbs water at the base, it is time to throw it away. Greenery should never be burned in a woodstove or fireplace as tar and creosote released during the burning can cause a fire inside the chimney. These compounds burn very fast and can quickly spread fire throughout the home.

Test all smoke alarms in the home to ensure they are working properly. Go over your family escape plan so in the event of a fire emergency all will be able to safely escape to a predetermined place outside.

For more information on fire and life safety, call 800-525-3124 or go to

www.firemarshal.state.md.us.