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These statistics serve as an important reminder that many holiday fire risks are preventable. By understanding common hazards and making a few mindful adjustments, households can enjoy the season while reducing the chance of a fire-related emergency.

Below are 12 practical ways to protect your home, your loved ones, and your peace of mind, without losing any of the holiday magic.

1) Holiday lights

• Choose certified lights and inspect cords for cracks, frays, or loose bulbs.
• Turn lights off when you’re sleeping or out of the house.
• Keep lights away from anything that can burn (curtains, wrapping paper, tree branches).

2) Tree watering

• If you have a real tree, keep it well-watered so it doesn’t dry out and become more flammable.
• Keep the tree away from fireplaces, vents, radiators, and space heaters.

3) Candles and decorations

• Use sturdy candle holders and keep flames far from greenery, décor, and gift wrap.
• Consider LED candles for high-traffic areas or homes with children or pets.

4) Smoke alarms

• Ensure your smoke alarms are working and test them regularly.
• Replace batteries as needed and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for replacement timelines.

5) Carbon monoxide alarms

If your home has fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or an attached garage, ensure you have functioning CO alarms and test them regularly.

6) Extension cords

• Use extension cords only as a temporary solution, never as permanent wiring.
• Don’t run cords under rugs or furniture where heat can build up.
• Avoid overloading outlets and power bars (spread out high-wattage items).

7) Kids in the kitchen

• Create a “kid-free zone” around the stove and hot appliances.
• Assign age-appropriate tasks (setting the table rather than stirring a boiling pot).

8) Home fire escape plans

• Make sure everyone knows two ways out of key rooms and where to meet outside.
• Practice it, especially if you’ll have guests or kids home from school.

9) Cooking

Cooking is a significant holiday risk area: cooking fires account for 19% of holiday home fires and 27% of holiday home-fire injuries.

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking (if you must leave, turn the stove off).
• Keep pot handles turned in; keep towels and paper away from burners.

10) Heating sources

• Give space heaters “breathing room” (keep them well away from anything that can burn).
• Never leave portable heaters running unattended.

11) Smoking

Smoking remains a leading factor in fatal fires: the Ontario Fire Marshal notes careless smoking as a top cause of fatal fires, and holiday safety materials report smoking accounts for 30% of home-fire deaths during the holidays.

• If you or your guests smoke, do it outside, and use large, deep ashtrays.
• Make sure cigarette butts are entirely out (wet them before discarding).

12) Lithium-ion batteries

• Charge phones, e-bikes, toys, tools, and other battery devices with the correct charger.
• Don’t charge on beds/sofas; keep charging areas clear and ventilated.
• Stop using batteries that are swollen, damaged, or overheating.

The holidays are meant to be a time of comfort and connection, but seasonal activities can introduce added fire hazards inside the home. Following the Ontario Fire Marshal’s 12 holiday fire safety tips can significantly reduce risks. Prevention is key, and small, proactive steps can help protect households throughout the winter.

Wishing everyone a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season.