Staying Safe During the Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, the North Battleford Fire Department reminds residents that festive celebrations bring increased use of lights, decorations, and heating equipment—each a potential fire or carbon monoxide hazard. By following simple safety practices, checking CO₂ monitors, keeping furnace vents clear of ice, and planning a sober ride home, families can enjoy a joyful, safe holiday season. 

Christmas Tree

• Choose a freshly cut tree with high moisture (needles bend, few fall).
• Use a stand that holds 2 to 3 litres of water and refill daily; keep the trunk submerged.
• Position the tree away from heat sources, doors, and vents.
• Do not place candles on the tree.

Decorations and Lights

• Pick flame retardant, non-combustible ornaments; avoid tiny pieces if children or pets are present.
• Use LED strings certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
• Inspect cords for cracked bulbs, frayed wires, or exposed insulation; discard any damaged sets.
• Keep indoor rated lights outdoors and vice versa.
• Turn off all lights before sleeping or leaving the house.

Candles

• Limit candles to essential use; place them in sturdy holders on stable surfaces, away from drafts, curtains, children, and pets.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended, and always extinguish before leaving the room.

Kitchen Safety

• For grease fires: cover the pan, turn off heat, and smother with baking soda.
• Never use water, overhead fans, or flammable liquids on a grease fire.

Fireplace and Chimney

• Burn only seasoned, dry wood; never use gift wrap, cardboard, or a Christmas tree as fuel.
• Keep a screen in front of the fire and never leave it unattended.
• Clean ashes regularly and store them in a metal container away from combustibles.

Electrical Outlets

• Avoid overloading circuits; use only CSA certified cords and plugs.
• Fully insert plugs, keep cords uncoiled, and never run them under rugs or carpets.
• Replace any cord showing fraying, exposed wires, or loose connections.

CO₂ Safety Tips (Home Heating and Appliances)

• Check carbon monoxide (CO) detectors monthly; replace batteries at least once a year.
• Replace or service furnace monitors annually; ensure they are calibrated and functioning.
• Keep external furnace vents and chimney openings free of ice, snow, or debris to allow proper exhaust flow.
• Change furnace filters every 1 to 3 months (more often with pets or heavy use).
• Never block vent openings with furniture, curtains, or stored items.
• If a CO alarm sounds, evacuate immediately, call emergency services, and have a qualified technician inspect the heating system before restarting it.

Planning a Safe Ride Home

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired driving dramatically increases crash risk.
•  Designated driver: Choose a sober friend or family member before drinking begins.
• Stay the night: If you’re at a host’s house and feel any impairment, arrange to sleep over.
• Call a local taxi service for a quick, reliable ride.
• Operation Red Nose: A free, volunteer run service offering safe rides for holiday celebrations.
  • To book, call 306-445-1020 or 306-441-4676.
  • Provide your location, destination, and the number of passengers; a driver will arrive promptly.

Celebrate Safely

By combining fire prevention habits, CO₂ monitoring, and responsible travel planning, you protect both your home and yourself. A safe environment lets you focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with family and friends. Wishing you a joyful, healthy, and accident free holiday season!

For more information:

Dustin Tungilik MacDonald, Communications Administrator
306-445-1713 | Email