Sarnia Fire and Rescue Services has kicked off its 12 Days of Holiday Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety campaign.
The initiative is done every year to help educate residents on how to keep their homes safe during the holiday season.
Public Education Officer Mike Otis said everything from Christmas trees to lights to entertaining tips is covered.
"If you have a natural Christmas tree, make sure you water it every day," Otis said. "They dry up, and they go up like gasoline."
When it comes to lights, Otis said there is one thing that's very important.
"Making sure you're using the proper cords," he said. "So, using indoor cords indoors and outdoor cords outdoors."
One safety tip will be released daily, starting on Friday, December 12.
Otis is also reminding residents that starting on January 1, 2026, Ontario law will require CO alarms on every storey of a home.
"Until now, a CO alarm was required on any level with a sleeping area in your home, any home with a fuel-fired appliance, attached garage, or a fireplace," he said. "As of January 1, it's going to be every storey of your home, regardless if it has a sleeping area or not."
A working smoke alarm is already required on every story of your home.
The 12 Days of Holiday Fire and CO Safety tips are available on Sarnia Fire and Rescue's Facebook page and Instagram account.
