Des Moines, IA – Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management is urging residents to take extra precautions with holiday lights and decorations this week as fire risks typically rise during the winter season.
According to the agency, simple checks before plugging in holiday displays can significantly reduce the chance of electrical fires. Officials recommend inspecting all light strands for broken or cracked sockets, damaged plugs, and frayed or bare wires. They also advise Iowans not to link more than three strands of lights together and to avoid overloading outlets or extension cords, which can overheat and spark fires.
The agency also emphasizes the importance of unplugging all holiday lights before leaving the home or going to bed. Fire officials say unattended electrical decorations remain a leading cause of preventable winter house fires.
In addition to lighting precautions, Iowa HSEM reminds residents to keep Christmas trees properly watered and placed away from heat sources. Dry trees can ignite rapidly, creating dangerous conditions in seconds. Candles—another seasonal hazard—should never be left burning unattended or placed near decorations that could catch fire.
These reminders come as families across Iowa decorate for the holidays, a period when fire departments typically see an increase in electrical and tree-related incidents. Emergency officials say awareness and small preventive steps can make a critical difference in keeping households safe.
More information and additional safety guidance can be found through the agency’s official channels.
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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