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By Liam Verster

Fire Safety TIps

Vernon Fire Services urges fire safety over the winter holidays

Dec 18, 2025 | 3:09 PM

Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) is reminding people to take steps to prevent fires this holiday season and throughout the winter months.

The local fire department said the holidays are a time of celebration, but they can also bring added fire risks, and advised people follow a few key steps to ensure their families and homes are safe.

“Checking your smoke alarms and keeping decorations away from heat sources are small actions that make a big difference,” said Deputy Chief Alan Hofsink.

“A little planning goes a long way toward a safe and happy holiday season.”

VFRS also had other safety tips:

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• Inspect lights for damaged cords or loose connections and replace if needed
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights and avoid damaging cords
• Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations
• Keep anything that can burn at least one metre away from heat sources including fireplaces, space heaters and wood stoves
• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using a space heater
• Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or going to bed
• Never use the oven to heat the home
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets
• Have eating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually
• Dispose of used batteries safely by taking them to a local recycling depot and not throwing them in the trash

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