Experts are offering Santa Clarita residents tips on how to keep homes safe from preventable fires this holiday season.

 November and December is the time of the year when residents decorate their homes with lights, candles, and trees, however, if done incorrectly disaster can strike. 

 Every year dry Christmas trees, holiday lights and candles cause multiple house fires, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

 Officials are advising Santa Clarita residents to keep Christmas trees and other holiday decorations away from heat sources to reduce the risk of fires.

 While families are choosing a tree this year, it is important to keep certain tips in mind to avoid a tragedy.

  Families wanting a “real Christmas tree,” be sure the tree is green and fresh. Keep it away from fireplaces and other heat sources.

 Water the tree frequently to keep it green and from drying out.

 For those wishing to have an artificial tree, choose a fire-resistant model.

 Fire officials are also reminding residents that Christmas trees are not the only decoration that pose a threat for home fires.

 “Before hanging your lights every year, check for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking or wear,” Fire officials say.

 Wires should not be warm to the touch during use, or linked to more than three strands of lights, unless the directions state that it is safe to do so, according to officials.

Also, decorations should not be placed in front of exits. In case of an emergency, having a clear route of escape can make a difference, according to officials.

 And while at the end of the celebration there tends to be wrapping paper all around the Christmas tree, the Department advises to recycle the paper and not put it in the fireplace.

 “Do not burn wrapping paper in the fireplace as it may cause dangerous sparks and embers that can lead to a chimney fire,” Fire officials said.

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