Barrie Fire is releasing its 12 Top Tips of Fire Safety in a bid to prevent Christmas tragedies.
"We traditionally see an increase in fires over the holiday season," said Samantha Hoffmann, Barrie Fire's public fire and life safety officer.
Hoffmann tells BarrieToday the number one cause of fires across the province is cooking.
"It's very easy over the holidays to be distracted, to forget something on the stove or to do a lot of cooking and put your oven on to clean. We see fires caused by that."
Christmas lights are pretty but some people go Griswald with electoral cords.
"We also see overloaded electrical outlets and misuse of extension cords," said Hoffmann.
Many fatal fires are caused by careless smoking but Hoffman says most people are getting the message and are taking it outside.
That has led to an increase in fires on decks ignited by a cigarette butt tossed onto mulch.
"Especially since its so green this year," said Hoffmann. "People are outside smoking and they throw their cigarette and they go to bed and the neighbours see the deck on fire or the fire at the side of the house and its from people carelessly discarding their cigarettes."
With holiday travel Barrie Fire says it's important to check if where you're staying has working smoke and co alarms and that you have an escape plan.
'Tis also the season for candle fires.
"Our rule is 'when you go out blow out,'" said Hoffman. "Never leave a candle lit in a room that you're not in. Be extra careful if you have pets. Cats are very curious with candles, dogs can walk by and knock it off holders."
And your clothes dryer can cause a fire if you fail to empty the lint basket.
The vent that goes from the back of the dryer to the exterior of your house should be emptied at least every six months.
Here is the full list of 12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety
1. Water fresh trees daily
2.Check all sets of lighting before decorating to ensure they are in good condition.
3. Make sure you have working smoke alarms.
4. Make sure you have working carbon monoxide alarms.
5. Make sure everyone knows how to get out safely if a fire occurs.
6. Use extension cords wisely.
7. Give space heaters space.
8. When you go out, blow out all candles.
9. Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children.
10. Watch what you heat! Stay in the kitchen when cooking.
11. Encourage smokers to smoke outside.
12. Keep a close eye on anyone in your household who consumes alcohol while cooking or smoking.
