Christmas and gift-giving is drawing near. Columbus Fire Chief Dave Allmon says it is important to practice fire safety year around, but especially as possible flammable elements are introduced in to your home. As you open gifts, Chief Allmon says that you should never burn cardboard, or wrapping paper, in your fireplace. He says these items simply burn too hot and can crack, or otherwise damage, your flue…

If you have a natural Christmas tree, Allmon says it is important to water it each and every day. As it relates to lighting your tree…

Chief Allmon also says it is important to make sure your Christmas tree doesn’t block an exit. He adds that you should make sure that your tree is far enough away from heat sources, like fireplaces and space heaters. Allmon says trees should be at least two-to-three feet away from the heat sources.

If you have questions about fire safety, call the Columbus Fire Department at (812) 376-2679.