The Campbell County Department of Public Safety wants to
remind you that there are steps you can take to help you stay safe this holiday
season.
The December holiday season coincides with the start of
winter weather in Central Virginia. So it’s a good idea to brush up on safety
measures for holiday decorating and winter weather.
Here are some of Public Safety’s winter holiday safety tips:
*Keep live Christmas trees in areas that are far from heating
sources such as fireplaces, heat vents, and space heaters.
*All decorations should be non-flammable/flame retardant and
placed away from heat sources.
*Check ornaments, decorations, and tree branches to make
sure they are not retaining heat from nearby lights.
*Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare
spots, gaps in the insulation, cracked sockets, and excessive wear before
placing them in or on the home. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing
laboratory.
Some of Public Safety’s winter weather safety tips are:
*Bring pets indoors to avoid winter storms and the cold.
*Use extra caution if using wood, kerosene, or other fuels
as supplemental heating sources. Ensure proper ventilation is present and
refill units outside.
*Keep space heaters away from flammable items.
*Check your preparedness kits to ensure supplies are up to
date and that flashlights, radios, and other items still work. Replace any
batteries that are not fully charged.
*If traveling during winter storms, wait until roads have
been adequately cleared before driving, and reduce speed to accommodate for
roadway conditions.
For a complete list of holiday and winter safety
recommendations, go to the Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Preparedness
section on this website by clicking on the link below.