East Pierce Fire & Rescue is supporting a "Fire Safe" holiday season, promoting a "Keep the Wreath Red" campaign.

From Dec. 1 through the New Year, each of the district's staffed stations will have a wreath hung on the front of the apparatus bays. The wreaths will be decorated with red lights and bows. Should the community experience fire loss related to holiday decorations, a red bulb will be replaced with a white bulb. The goal is to "Keep the Wreath Red," and help prevent any senseless loss as a result of fire.

The district offers the following suggestions to help create a safe holiday season.

€ Do not put too many light strings together or overload electrical outlets. Read manufacturer’s recommendations as to the proper amount that can be safely strung together.

€ Place only one plug into each receptacle. If more outlets are needed, use a UL listed surge protector.

€ Discard any light strings with frayed cords or sockets.

€ Don't use fireplaces to burn wrapping material or treated/painted wood. These can create toxic fumes and flash fires.

€ Use kindling wood and wooden matches to light fireplace fires - never flammable liquids.

€ Keep flammable decorations, including live trees, away from the fireplace.

€ Make sure the fire is completely out before closing the chimney flue, going to bed or leaving the house.

€ Dispose of ashes in a metal container and never store them in or near your house.

€ Do not place decorations in direct contact with lighting. They are made up of many materials that may react differently to heat.

€ Real trees - remember to water them daily, so they do not dry out. Do not leave lights on when leaving the home or going to bed. Do not put real candles on the tree.

€ Check smoke detectors on every floor of the house to ensure they are working properly.

€ Practice EDITH (Exit Drills in the Home). Every family member should know at least two ways out of every room in the house and where a meeting spot is.

Fire safety should be practiced every day of the year, however East Pierce Fire & Rescue stresses the importance of holiday fire safety due to the large number of residential fires that occur this time of year.