Contact:
Allen McHenry
(478) 475-5807
amchenry@pdr-usa.net
Paul Davis Restoration offers tips for holiday safety
Macon, GA – The holiday season is fast approaching. During this busy time of year, it is important to remember to take steps to protect loved ones and property from the threat of fire. Paul Davis Restoration, Inc., a national franchise company and leading provider of fire and water damage clean up and restoration services for residential and commercial properties, offers tips to help ensure a fire-safe holiday season.
According to the United States Fire Administration, fires occurring during the holidays result in 400 deaths, 1,650 injuries, and more than $990 million in damage every year.
Allen McHenry, Paul Davis office owner, encourages planning and preparation for a safe holiday season. “Make safety awareness a regular part of your holiday planning while entertaining family and friends along with decorating and cooking,” he said.
Paul Davis provides the following tips for safety practices during the holiday season.
Holiday Decorations. Decorate with non-combustible or flame-resistant materials. Never use lighted candles on a tree, evergreens or flammable materials. Don’t place candles near children or pets.
Lights. Make sure there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections. Check labels to be sure about the proper use of indoor and outdoor lights. Don’t overload electrical outlets.
Trees. Cut a few inches off the trunk of a live tree and fill the stand with water to keep it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. An artificial tree should be labeled "Fire Resistant." Place trees away from fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters.
Fire Escape Plan. Make sure everyone understands the escape routes and where to meet once outside.
Smoke Alarms. Make sure your smoke alarms are in proper working order and change the batteries.
Fire Extinguishers. Make sure there is a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen, laundry room, and garage. Learn how to use the fire extinguisher.
Fireplace/Chimney. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. Don’t burn greens, boughs, papers, and other decorations in the fireplace. Check to see that the flue is open.
According to McHenry, keep a list with all of the important phone numbers that you may need in case of an emergency. Include the police and fire department, doctors and the national poison help line. “In the unfortunate event that you experience property damage to your home or business due to a fire, contact a licensed, professional fire damage clean up and restoration company. Delay can result in additional cost, stress and injury during the holidays,” he said.
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Paul Davis Restoration, Inc. is a leading provider of fire, water and mold damage restoration and reconstruction services for residential and commercial properties. All Paul Davis offices nationwide are properly licensed and trained and are certified by the restoration industry’s The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Founded in 1966, Paul Davis Restoration has franchise offices throughout North America. Visit the website at www.pdrestoration.com.
