fire fighters give tips on holiday safety

As we head into the Christmas and New Year holidays, the Ville Platte Fire Department and the Evangeline Pariswh Fire District 2 chiefs, officers and fire fighters want to remind the public of some safety tops regarding Christmas trees and fireworks.
People who have artificial trees should make sure they are labeled by the manufacturer as made with fire retardant materials.
People who choose live trees should look for fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Cut one to two inches from the base of the trunk before placing it in the stand.
Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from a fireplace, candle or any other source of heat, and that the tree is not blocking exits. Water live trees daily.
Make sure lights have a label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are intended for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
Any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections should be replaced and not be used. Connect no more than three strands of mini-string sets, and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Never decorate a tree with candles.
Tree lights should always be turned off when leaving home or going to bed.
A live tree that begins to drop needles should be discarded because it is a fire hazard.
People should attend a public fireworks display that is presented by people with more experience. Children should not handle fireworks without adult supervision. Fireworks should be used as directed on the consumer product safety label, and fireworks should not be altered in any way.
Make sure you understand local laws regarding fireworks, and designate a competent handler. Never drink alcoholic beverages before handling fireworks, and use fireworks away from any structures and vehicles. Wear safety glasses and have a garden hose nearby when using fireworks.
Have a bucket or other container of water ready to drop in fireworks that fail to light. Wait at least 20 minutes before removing fireworks from the water and putting them in the trash.
Your local fire fighters with everyone a safe and happy holiday season and “remember we are at your fingertips.”