With the holiday season upon us, Chatham-Kent’s Fire Chief is issuing a word of warning. 
Bob Crawford says the distraction that comes with this time of year can be deadly, and residents are reminded to never leave candles or cooking food unattended.
“When you’re working in the kitchen and you’ve got the pots on the stove, if you’re going to leave the kitchen, turn the pots off,” Crawford says. “It’s easy to get distracted, you have people in the house or the children are busy, it’s a festive time of year and we’re celebrating, but you’ve got to keep focused on what you’re doing.”
As well, Crawford says if you have a real Christmas tree, keep it well-watered.
Extension cords can also be a fire hazard with all of the lights and decorations plugged in.
Crawford says ensure your extension cords are in good shape, not frayed, and not placed underneath a carpet where static electricity could cause problems.
