As colder weather arrives and holiday celebrations get underway, Georgetown County Fire-EMS is reminding residents that winter traditions and seasonal activities can also bring increased fire risks if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Assistant Fire Chief Aaron Bostic says many holiday-related fires stem from everyday activities that people don’t typically consider dangerous—until something goes wrong. Christmas trees are a common concern this time of year, particularly live trees. While real trees can be safely enjoyed, they require regular care. Keeping a live tree well-watered helps prevent it from drying out, which significantly reduces the risk of fire. Dry trees can ignite quickly, producing intense heat and heavy smoke in a matter of seconds. Residents are also encouraged to place trees away from heat sources and to turn off decorative lights when leaving the house or going to bed.
Electrical safety is another important consideration during the holidays, when homes are often filled with lights, decorations and seasonal displays. Fire-EMS recommends using UL-listed surge protectors rather than basic multi-plug adapters and avoiding overloading outlets. Surge protectors should be used properly and not connected to one another. Space heaters, which draw a high amount of power, should never be plugged into surge protectors or extension cords.
Heating equipment itself is one of the leading causes of winter fires. In Georgetown County, many residents rely on non-traditional heating sources such as kerosene heaters and wood-burning stoves. While effective, these systems require careful use and regular maintenance. Kerosene heaters should only be refueled outdoors using the correct fuel, and never while the heater is hot. Spilled fuel can ignite quickly and lead to serious house fires.
Wood- burning stoves and fireplaces should have chimneys inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent dangerous buildup.
Carbon monoxide is another hidden hazard during colder months. Homes that use gas appliances, gas heat or fuel-burning devices should be equipped with working carbon monoxide alarms in addition to smoke detectors. These alarms can provide early warning of a potentially deadly buildup of carbon monoxide gas.
Outdoor cooking and celebrations also bring seasonal risks. Turkey fryers, popular around Thanksgiving and the holidays, should always be used outdoors, well away from buildings and overhangs. Overfilling fryers with oil is a common mistake that can cause oil to spill over when the turkey is added, igniting flames almost instantly. Measuring oil levels ahead of time can help prevent this danger.
Fireworks, often used during New Year’s celebrations, can cause serious burns and fires if used improperly. Even sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures and should be closely supervised, especially around children. Fireworks should only be used in open areas, away from homes and dry vegetation. Dry winter conditions can allow sparks to quickly ignite brush or forest fires, which remain a serious concern in Georgetown County year-round.
Cooking fires also increase during the holidays as families prepare large meals and entertain guests. Fire-EMS urges residents to stay attentive while cooking, avoid distractions and keep flammable items away from stoves and ovens.
Cooking fires also increase during the holidays as families prepare large meals and entertain guests. Fire-EMS urges residents to stay attentive while cooking, avoid distractions and keep flammable items away from stoves and ovens.
Finally, officials remind residents to be mindful of lithium-ion batteries found in phones, laptops and other electronic devices. Devices should be charged in well-ventilated areas, away from beds, couches or other flammable materials. Overheating or malfunctioning batteries can cause fires, particularly when devices are left plugged in for long periods. Fire officials stress that working smoke alarms remain one of the most important fire safety tools in any home. Smoke alarms should be tested regularly and installed on every level of the home and near sleeping areas.
“Most people who experience a house fire never expect it to happen,” Bostic said. “The holidays are a busy time, and it’s easy to get distracted. Taking a few extra precautions can help keep families safe.” Residents are encouraged to make fire safety part of their holiday preparations so they can enjoy the season safely.