Fire officials encourage safety during holiday season

Lights and other decorations are part of the holiday season, but South Dakota’s Fire Marshal says decorations, especially candles, can create safety hazards and cause fires when not used properly. 

Home fires are always a threat during the holidays. Fire Marshal Paul Merriman said the potential for fires is higher than usual because more heating sources are being used.

No matter what time of year, Merriman said home fire safety must also include smoke alarms. He suggested testing smoke alarms regularly to ensure there are working smoke alarms on each level of the home, in each bedroom, and adjacent to sleeping areas.