The Lunar New Year is a time for joy, celebration and tradition. We want to ensure your festivities are both happy and safe! Whether you’re lighting lanterns or preparing a feast, here are some safety tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe.
FIREWORKS AND FIRECRACKER SAFETY
Using fireworks in New York City is dangerous and illegal. Leave ALL fireworks to the professionals. You can also use paper poppers as an alternative to firecrackers.
CANDLE AND INCENSE SAFETY
Many Lunar New Year traditions including burning candles or incense. These practices can pose fire risks.
- Keep candles and incense sticks in stable, nonflammable holders.
- Place them at least 12 inches away from anything flammable, like curtains or decorations.
- Never leave candles or incense burning unattended.
- Use battery-powered candles as a safer alternative.
COOKING SAFETY
The Lunar New Year feast is the centerpiece of celebrations. While preparing dishes, keep safety in mind.
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking.
- Keep flammable items, like dish towels and packaging, away from stovetops.
- Turn pot handles inward.
- If a small grease fire occurs, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat. Never use water on a grease fire.
LANTERN SAFETY
Improper use can lead to accidents. Here are some safety tips regarding lanterns:
- Avoid releasing sky lanterns, which can cause fires if they land on buildings or trees.
- Use LED lights instead of candles to illuminate decorative lanterns.
Lunar New Year gatherings can bring many people into one home, so make sure everyone knows your fire escape plan and practice it together.
Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home. These lifesaving devices can provide early warnings in case of an emergency.