Holiday lights, Christmas trees, candles and tinsel are on the minds of many Hoosiers as holiday decorating commences.

The cooler months, notably December and January, are the most common times for home fires, deaths and injuries. Many of these fires are started by holiday lights, Christmas trees, unattended candles and improperly maintained alternative heating units.

“With home fires occurring most often during the holiday season, it’s important for Hoosiers to be extra careful with decorations,” said Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson.

Hanging decorations or lights from a ladder also calls for extra precautions as each year thousands of people flood emergency rooms with injuries due to ladder climbing.

For more information about safety this holiday season, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.