Christmas is a busy time of year. It’s also one filled with fire hazards – from cooking to dry trees to overloaded power outlets and beyond. That’s precisely why the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office has drafted the 12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety.

While titled after the popular festive song, it’s really a dozen recommendations to help you and your family enjoy the holidays safely:

• If using a fresh tree, be sure its base is constantly in water and the tree itself is kept clear of fireplaces, heaters and candles.

• Inspect all strings of lights before putting them up, and discard any that are frayed or damaged.

• Ensure your smoke alarm is fully functional, with one installed on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas.

• Make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm. This potentially deadly gas is odourless and colourless.

• Have a fire escape plan, and make sure everyone knows how to get out safely.

• Use extension cords sparingly, and never put them under a rug.

• Give space heaters space – at least one metre (three feet) from anything that can burn.

• Blow out all candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Keep lit candles away from children and pets, as well as anything that can burn.

• Make sure all matches and lighters are also beyond the reach of children. Keep them with you at all times.

• When cooking, always stay in the kitchen – especially if using oil or high temperatures.

• Direct smokers outside. Careless smoking is the leading cause of fatal fires.

• Keep a close eye on anyone attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol (or any drug, for that matter).

By following these tips, we can all enjoy a safe holiday.

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The entire staff of the Flamborough Review would like to take this opportunity to wish our readers the best of the holiday season. To everyone who helps make each edition a reflection of our community – from those who submit vacation photos or letters to the editor to the families of the young carriers who deliver papers each week to households across Flamborough – we extend our sincere thanks for a wonderful year, and we look forward to providing coverage of your events in the coming year.

Please have a safe and merry Christmas and a healthy, happy 2012!