Lethbridge Fire Department shares tips on how to stay safe during the holidays. (Photo: LNN, December 21, 2022)

By Sarah Jones

Lethbridge Fire Department offers safety tips heading into the holiday weekend

Dec 22, 2022 | 10:22 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – With cold weather continuing to sweep across Alberta – the Lethbridge Fire Department would like to remind citizens about some important safety tips heading into the holidays

Earlier this week, a fire caused by a space heater left unattended inside a north Lethbridge home caused upwards of $500,000 in damage.

While the fire was deemed accidental, Lethbridge Chief Fire Marshal Heath Wright asks people to be cautious during this season as they do see an increase in calls around this time of year.

“Unfortunately, during this Christmas time, I think everybody is in a rush, everybody wants to get everything done and everybody wants the family around,” said Wright. “Maybe everybody just slow down and try to be conscientious of your actions and make sure that everybody is safe at the end of the day.”

He went on to explain that there are a number of ways individuals can help to avoid an accident.

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“One of the things about space heaters, space heaters are used for temporary heat. A lot of individuals, especially with the type of cold weather we’re experiencing right now, use it as permanent heating,” explained Wright. “All I can suggest to the public and to everyone around, is to make sure you’re there when you’re using it and make sure you turn it off. If not, unplug it when you’re not using it.”

Wright noted that many people use extension cords or power bars to plug these types of appliances in, which can cause serious trouble as they pull lots of amperage. He suggests plugging them directly into an outlet to avoid any problems.

Additional caution was aired for items like candles, as Wright added that while they can make your home feel nice and cozy, they should be stored properly, burn in non-combustible containers, and blown out before leaving the room.

“Other thing is Christmas trees,” continued Wright. “Real trees are nice, but make sure they have enough moisture and they’re green trees and they’re not dry. Same with the lighting around those trees, making sure there’s no shorting in the wiring and making sure wires are not exposed.”

Wright added that he wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Read more: One person sent to hospital after North Lethbridge fire Monday night