Holiday Safety

Fireworks are a fun way to celebrate special events, but they can lead to burns and injuries if you try to use them yourself.

People often think sparklers are harmless, but they can reach up to 700 degrees and even cause third-degree burns.

NOTE: Fireworks are illegal in Richmond. You cannot own, sell or light them without a permit.

Apply for a Fireworks Permit HERE

Fireworks safety checklist:

1. Do not handle fireworks at home.
2. If you want to see fireworks, go to a public event organized by experts.
3. Watch children carefully at events where fireworks like sparklers are being used.

Every year, multiple fires are caused by decorations –– including the ones we put up on Halloween.

Halloween safety checklist:

1. Choose bright costumes for you and/or your children so you’re all always visible.
2. Give your children flashlights when they go trick-or-treating.
3. Only use candles with batteries (not real candles) in lanterns.
4. Keep all your decorations away from any open flames.
5. Check that all your smoke alarms at home are working.
6. Keep all your exits and escape routes free of any decorations on the floor.

Though lighting candles at home can bring relaxation or connect you with a personal ritual, having an open flame can still be dangerous.

Tips for using candles at home:

• Before you leave a room, ensure any candles you lit are put out
• If you are going to sleep, ensure any candles you lit are put out
• Keep all candles at least three feet away from any materials that can burn, like curtains

Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire safe holiday season

Nearly half of decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

Festive decorations safety checklist:

1. Choose decorations that are flame resistant.
2. Keep any candles away from decorations or other things that can burn.
3. Use clips instead of nails to hang lights.
4. Avoid hanging decorations near doors or windows.
5. Keep Christmas trees at least three feet away from sources of heat like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
6. Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving the house or going to sleep.
7. Keep all your exits and escape routes free of any decorations on the floor.