It’s that time of year again, and the Department of Safety and Risk Services wants to help the university community be safe this holiday season. Decorating can be fun and make the environment festive and lively, but there are some safety issues to keep in mind.
Fire is a major issue during the holiday season, and although we may love the look and scent of candles, they are not allowed inside any UNM building. Electric luminarias are fine for both outdoor and indoor use, but candle types are only allowed outdoors. Make sure to have at least two inches of sand in the luminaria bag, and keep them at least five feet away from any combustible material. Don’t forget to blow out the candles at the end of the evening.
Another item of concern is trees. Do not bring cut Christmas trees, branches, pine cones or mistletoe into any UNM facility. Artificial trees and decorations are allowed inside, as long as they are flame retardant and labeled with a UL (Underwriters Laboratory) or FM (Factory Mutual) sticker.
Be extra careful when hanging lights or decorations. Don’t hang them from fire sprinklers or light fixtures, and make sure not to block doorways, exits, fire extinguishers or exit signs. Use flame or fire retardant lights that have the UL/FM sticker. Use only newer extension cords, and never string extension cords together. And of course, don’t leave them in a place where anyone can trip over them.
SRS designed these guidelines to keep the community safe this holiday season and to help with planning. To view a list of comprehensive guidelines for holiday decorations, luminaria and safe cooking practices, go to srs.unm.edu and click “UNM Holiday Decoration Guidelines” or call SRS at 277-2753.
Story by Serena Pearson
Posted by scarr at December 11, 2008 01:17 PM