Elwood, IL – As homes fill with lights, decorations, and extra appliances, Elwood fire officials are reminding residents to take extra precautions to prevent electrical fires during the holiday season.
According to the Elwood Fire Protection District, one of the most common holiday fire hazards comes from overloading electrical outlets with too many decorations or appliances at once. Fire officials say this can cause overheating, increasing the risk of sparks or electrical fires inside homes.
On Wednesday, the district shared its sixth day of Holiday Fire Safety tips, urging residents to use electricity wisely when decorating. Officials recommend avoiding plugging multiple high-powered items into a single outlet and instead using power strips that include built-in surge protection.
Fire officials also advise giving power strips and outlets plenty of space to allow heat to dissipate. Overcrowded or covered power strips can trap heat, creating dangerous conditions—especially when left running for long periods or overnight.
The reminder comes as holiday-related house fires typically rise nationwide due to increased electrical use, candles, and cooking activities. While decorations can add seasonal cheer, fire officials say safety should remain a top priority.
Residents are encouraged to routinely check cords for damage, avoid running them under rugs, and unplug decorative lighting when leaving home or going to sleep. Any flickering lights, warm outlets, or unusual smells should be addressed immediately.
The Elwood Fire Protection District says it will continue sharing daily fire safety tips throughout the holiday season to help families celebrate safely.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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