Decking the halls safely Published Dec. 8, 2006 By 43rd Airlift Wing Safety Office POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Each year fires occurring during the holiday season injure 2,600 individuals and cause more than $930 million in damage, according to the United States Fire Administration. By following some simple tips you can reduce your chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty. - Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. - All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents. - Never put wrapping paper in a fireplace. It can throw off dangerous sparks and produce a chemical buildup in the home that could cause an explosion. - Outdoor lights and other electrical decorations should be certified for outdoor use. - Don't mount or support light strings in any way that might damage the cord's insulation. Never staple light strings or extension cords. - If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant. - Keep all outdoor extension cords and light strings clear of snow, standing water and well protected from weather. - Don't overload extension cords because they can overheat and start a fire. - Avoid using lit candles. If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked over. Never leave the house with candles burning. - Never put lit candles on a tree and never go near a Christmas tree with an open flame - candles, lighters or matches. - Use caution when decorating near power lines. Contact with high-voltage lines could lead to electrocution. - Don't allow children or pets to play with electrical chords and decorations. Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries. Know when and how to call for help. This is an excellent time to practice your home escape plan.