The holiday season brings festive cheer to workplaces, but it also increases the risk of fire hazards. From decorative lights to space heaters, even small oversights can lead to major safety issues. Businesses can protect their people, property, and operations by taking a few simple precautions. The following practical steps will help ensure your workplace stays both merry and fire safe throughout the season.

Inspect and maintain electrical systems

Before any lights or decorations go up, it’s essential to make sure your electrical systems are in good working order. According to USFA, in 2023, national estimates for nonresidential building electrical malfunction fires and loss show that there were 7,400 fires resulting in $354,400,000 in loss.

Have a qualified electrician inspect outlets, wiring, and circuit breakers for signs of wear, damage, or overload risk. Replace any frayed cords or malfunctioning equipment immediately. Taking care of these issues ahead of time prevents hazards that can worsen once additional lighting and powered décor are added, keeping your business safe from the start of the season.

Use flame-retardant decorations

Choose decorations that are labeled flame-retardant or non-combustible, especially for items placed near lights, outlets, or heat sources. Avoid using paper, dry greenery, or fabric that can easily ignite. Artificial trees and garlands made from flame-resistant materials are safer alternatives to natural ones that dry out quickly. By prioritizing fire-safe décor, your business can still capture the holiday spirit without increasing the risk of fire.

Manage cord and outlet use

Extension cords can be convenient, but overusing them or plugging multiple high-wattage devices into a single outlet can easily start a fire. Use cords only when necessary, and never daisy-chain multiple cords together. Make sure each outlet and power strip is rated for the total wattage of the devices plugged into it. Proper cord management not only reduces fire risk but also prevents tripping hazards, keeping both employees and visitors safe during the busy holiday season.

Keep exits and fire equipment accessible

No matter how festive your workplace gets, emergency exits and fire extinguishers must always remain unobstructed. Decorations, boxes, or extra furniture should never block exit routes or doors. Make sure exit signs are well-lit and clearly visible, and conduct a quick walkthrough to confirm that all escape paths are free. Regular checks during the holiday season help ensure that, in the unlikely event of a fire, employees and visitors can leave quickly and safely.

Schedule after-hours checks for lights and appliances

Many fires start after business hours when decorative lights, space heaters, or kitchen appliances are left running unattended. Make it a habit to walk through the building at the end of the day or week to ensure all lights and equipment are turned off or unplugged. This small step can prevent minor oversights from turning into major fire incidents, keeping your workplace safe throughout the holiday season.

It should go without saying that you should have your fire alarm system tested and inspected at regular intervals!

The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of safety. By taking proactive steps that include inspecting electrical systems, choosing flame-retardant décor, managing cords responsibly, and following other fire-prevention practices, businesses can protect their people, property, and operations. A little preparation goes a long way, ensuring your workplace stays bright, festive, and fire safe all season long.

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