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Wichita's Chief Fire Prevention officer Bob Thompson said the holiday season will be a lot safer if everybody heeds 10 tips for fire prevention. 

Thompson compiled a list of tips to help families through the holiday season.

1. Water, water and more water for your tree. Dry trees pose a fire risk. Make a fresh cut on the base before putting your tree onto a sturdy stand, and then water frequently.
2. Check your lights, and check them twice. Inspect all of your electric lights and decorations damage and wear. Cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections can cause a fire or shock hazard.
3. Be flame aware. Always blow out unattended candles and teach your children to say away from lit candles or fireplaces.
4. Give wrapping paper a second life. Don’t burn used wrapping paper as it may cause intense flash fire. Throwing it out adds waste. Consider recycling or reusing it the next year.
5. Check extension cords. Do not connect more than three strings of lights together. Check the rating on your extension cord and do not plug in more than the recommended wattage.
6. Steer your tree clear. Your tree should be positioned at least three feet from fireplaces and other heat sources. Trees should not block any doorway or exit.
7. Decorate with a safe eye. Cords should not run under carpets or be tacked up using metal nails or staples. Small decorations can be a choke hazard for small children. Keep them out of the reach of children.
8. Look for the UL. The UL mark on a product means that the product has been tested to the highest safety standards.
9. Plan your fire escape. Use the holiday season as a good time to practice a fire escape with your loved ones.
10. Sleep safe. Smoke alarms make great gifts. Or, buy a new smoke alarm and install it in your home.

For more information regarding holiday safety, please call the Wichita Fire Department’s Fire Prevention line at 268-4441.