The holidays are a time for lights and festive cheer, but it’s also a time to be mindful of safety, especially when you use propane appliances. Your fireplaces, outdoor heaters, gas logs, and kitchen appliances add convenience, warmth, and ambiance—but decorations placed too closely can be a fire hazard. Here are a few simple steps to help you enjoy your holiday décor without compromising safety.
Keep Decorations Away from Heat Sources
Gas logs, space heaters, and other propane-powered items can get hot quickly. Make sure that your garlands, wreaths, and ribbons are at least three feet away from any heat source. This can prevent accidental ignition from radiant heat.
Don’t Light Up Your Appliances
While string lights may be a beautiful holiday staple, don’t drape them over your mantel or gas logs. Even low-wattage LEDs can heat up when in contact with fabric or paper decorations.
Check Cords and Connections
Before the first use of the season, inspect your cords and holiday light connections. Look for fraying or damage, and replace any light sets that are not in top condition. Don’t run cords under rugs or in areas where propane appliances are vented. Heat exposure can deteriorate the insulation around your cords, creating another fire hazard.
Opt for Non-Flammable Materials
While paper and dried natural materials, such as dried flowers, are beautiful and environmentally friendly, they are not meant to be used around propane appliances. Choose fire-resistant or non-flammable materials instead.
Outdoor Propane Safety
If you use a propane-powered fire pit as part of your holiday entertaining, keep decorations well away from flames and hot surfaces. This includes trees and wreaths. Also, never leave outdoor propane appliances unattended while in use.
Remember: Regular Maintenance Prevents Accidents
What you do day to day matters, but your propane system should also be maintained regularly. A system in good condition reduces the risk of accidental fires. Contact Advanced Propane for an inspection to ensure your system is functioning properly—so you can enjoy your chestnuts roasting on an open fire without worry.
Ultimately, holiday decorating should be fun and festive, not dangerous or stressful. By keeping decorations a safe distance from propane appliances, using fire-resistant materials, and ensuring your system is properly maintained, you can enjoy warmth and holiday cheer safely this season