Be merry and safe!

Here are some quick tips to help you and your family stay safe during the holiday season.

Holiday decorating

Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant
Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose
bulb connections
Read manufacturer’s instructions for recommended number of light strands that may be connected
Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged
Make sure your tree is at least three feet away from a heat source such as fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles or vents
Make sure your tree does not block any exits from your home
Keep lit candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable

Holiday safety indoors

Test your smoke alarms and review your home fire escape plan
Keep children and pets away from lit candles
Keep matches and lighters up high and away from small children
Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop
Keep a fire extinguisher handy in your kitchen
Never use water to put out a cooking fire. Instead, cover your pot and use a kitchen fire extinguisher or baking soda
Use a timer to remind you that the oven or stove is on
Ask smokers to smoke outside and to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them
Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding
Always sleep with your bedroom door closed. This simple fact can buy you and your family time to escape a house fire

More helpful information may be found at National Fire Protection Association and at Contra Costa County Fire.

We are a Firewise Community

Read about our journey and updates.
What is Defensible Space? See CCCFPD guide here. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers tips of how to prepare here. CCCFPD now offers a new online reporting form for weed abatement concerns and violations.

The California Public Utilities Commission worked with CAL FIRE and others to develop a Fire-Threat Map of California. The map shows places with a high risk of wildfires that could put people and property in danger. Additionally, PG&E has introduced an app that allows the public to report non-emergency safety concerns in high risks areas related to PG&E electrical equipment. Visit PG&E's Report It. Visit PG&E Safety site for helpful information.