• 02 Dec 2020
• opticom

The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and laughter with family gatherings to share memories and also good food. We however need to acknowledge that this year’s festive holiday will not be the same. The pandemic has implicated a negative toll to many families across the world. We advise that it is safest to celebrate with people within your community so as to avoid transmission among different regions. But if you really have to travel, take the right precautions before, during and after the family gets together.

December is also the month in which most home fires occur, especially right around Christmas time. Fortunately, there are several steps people can take to significantly reduce the risk of fire during the holiday season.

Kitchen fires

Most of the home fires experienced during festive holidays occur in the kitchen since, people spend more time indoors, home cooks are busy in the kitchen preparing mouthwatering delicacies.

Plus, the holidays present a flurry of distractions. Since food brings loved ones together; ensure that you stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling and turn off the stove when leaving the kitchen, even if it’s for a short time. You should also open kitchen windows and doors to allow air to circulate.

In addition; you should keep children and flammable items such as grocery bags and kitchen towels away from the stove and oven.

Similarly; there are reasons why outdoor cooking appliances are meant to stay outdoor. No matter what; do not take or use outdoor cooking devices indoors.

Decorations

For those keeping the Christmas spirit high; when decorating, be careful not to overcrowd outlets. Electrical malfunctions, might spark a fire. These electrical malfunctions are the second leading cause of all devastating residential fires.

Fireworks

We understand that some of you never call it a celebration if there are no fireworks. If you’ll be setting off fireworks at home, choose a location away from buildings and trees. Be sure your spectators, including children and pets, stay well back. Keep a supply of water or fire extinguisher at hand or somewhere easily accessible.

Make sure that you double check your smoke alarms and fire extinguishers and keep your heating system well-maintained. For a fire safety maintenance simply contact Opticom Kenya Limited via; 020 2686857 / 020 7909011 / info@opticom.co.ke www.opticom.co.ke.

In addition, do not block exits of the home in case of an emergency. In the event of a fire, have everyone evacuate the home to a safe place as quickly as possible and call your local fire department.