Safety during the New Year period: attention to details will preserve the holiday!

The most anticipated and magical holidays are approaching – New Year and Christmas. During this time, we decorate our homes, dress up Christmas trees, and create a cozy atmosphere. However, it is precisely during this period that the number of domestic fires and emergencies related to violations of fire safety rules increases.

The Orsha Emergency Situations Department reminds of several simple but vital rules that will help celebrate the holidays without incidents.

1. Christmas Tree: Beauty Without Risk

  • Installation: Place the tree on a stable base, away from heating devices, fireplaces, stoves, and household heaters. Do not place it near the exit of the room – it should not become an obstacle on the evacuation route.
  • Lights of the Garland: Buy only certified electric garlands from trusted stores. Before use, carefully inspect the product: check for any damage to the insulation, sockets, and plugs. Do not leave garlands plugged in overnight or when leaving the house!
  • Decorations: Prefer non-flammable or difficult-to-flame decorations. Do not use cotton, paper, and candles near the tree. Exclude sparklers and firecrackers indoors – sparks can instantly lead to ignition.

2. Electrical Appliances: Do Not Overload Circuits!

The New Year holidays are a time when many devices operate simultaneously. Remember:

  • One outlet – one device. Avoid using power strips and extension cords to connect several high-power devices (heater, garland, multicooker) at once.
  • Heaters – under control! Place them at a safe distance from furniture, curtains, and the tree. Do not dry clothes on them. Do not use homemade or faulty devices.
  • "When you leave, turn off the lights": Unplug all decorative electrical appliances (garlands, LED candles), chargers, and unused equipment from the outlets.

3. Stove Heating: Traditions and Caution

If your house is heated by a stove or fireplace:

  • Regularly check and clean the chimney. Do not allow it to overheat.
  • Do not leave a burning stove unattended. Before going to bed, ensure that the fire has completely extinguished.
  • It is prohibited: To use flammable liquids for kindling, to dry clothes on the stove, to stack firewood and other combustible materials near it. The ashes from the stove should be scooped into a metal container and taken far away from buildings.

4. Pyrotechnics – Not a Toy!

  • Purchase fireworks only from official retail outlets.
  • Carefully read the instructions and strictly follow them.
  • Launch pyrotechnics only in open areas, away from houses, cars, and people. Children are categorically prohibited from using pyrotechnics!
  • Do not attempt to relight a malfunctioning product.

In case of fire or other emergency situations, immediately call 101 or 112. Provide the exact address, what is burning, and whether there is a threat to people. Do not lose your composure and clearly follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

May your holidays be filled only with joy, warmth, and safety!

Happy New Year and Christmas!