Tips from Risk Management & Safety help ensure no one gets left out in the cold this holiday season.

On UNLV Risk Management's naughty list for the holidays is when too many lights are strung together, causing a potential fire hazard. (Josh Hawkins/UNLV Photo Services) 

The holiday season is a joyous time and one for rest and relaxation — but it can also put us in dangerous situations. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments respond to an average of 160 home fires ignited by Christmas trees per year.

“During the holidays there is an increase of residential fires caused by holiday decorations,” said Lewis Austin, fire and life safety manager. “It’s important to practice fire safety everyday, especially during the holidays.”

Holiday decorations, candles, cooking equipment, and large gatherings can result in fires, injuries, and property damage which can put a real damper on seasonal festivities. Luckily, it’s easy to avoid disaster. The experts from Risk Management & Safety — the team that keeps campus safe — provided tips so you and yours stay safe this holiday season!

Cooking brings people together, especially around the holidays. Whipping up casseroles, roasting (and sometimes deep frying) turkeys, and baking pies are traditions for many households. Preparing  these elaborate meals requires different appliances and heat sources. Without the proper attention, your bacon can quickly become an inferno! With that in mind, it’s always important to cook with caution.

Lights, trees, wreaths, candles, and paper decorations can put everybody into the holiday spirit at home or the office. However, these decorations should be used properly to prevent safety hazards and fires.

For those celebrating with a Christmas tree, make sure to recycle it after the holiday season through the Southern Nevada Christmas Tree Recycling Committee in partnership with our own Rebel Recycling. You can drop your used tree off on-campus at the Rebel Recycling Center or at 30 drop sites around the city. Recycled trees are diverted from landfills and turned into mulch for city landscaping projects.   If you have any questions about safe on-campus gatherings or overall safety precautions, contact Risk Management & Safety at 702-895–4226. The team hopes you have a wonderful and safe holiday season.

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