SAVAGE, MN – December 24, 2025 – PRESSADVANTAGE –
SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake has announced the release of comprehensive fire safety guidelines designed to help residents reduce fire risks during the holiday season. The restoration company, which specializes in fire damage recovery services, is providing educational resources to homeowners and businesses throughout the Twin Cities’ southwest suburbs as the winter holiday period approaches. With colder temperatures, increased indoor activity, and widespread use of decorative lighting, the company aims to equip the community with practical steps to prevent avoidable fire emergencies.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, home fires occur more frequently during the winter months, with December, January, and February accounting for the highest number of residential fire incidents annually. Cooking equipment, heating devices, and holiday decorations contribute to an elevated risk of fire-related emergencies during this time of year. SERVPRO’s initiative is designed to address these seasonal hazards through clear, actionable prevention strategies that families can easily implement.
The safety recommendations cover multiple aspects of holiday fire prevention, including proper placement of candles away from flammable materials, safe use of extension cords and electrical outlets, and routine maintenance of heating equipment. Additional guidance addresses the selection and care of natural Christmas trees, which can become fire hazards when allowed to dry out. The company also highlights safe cooking practices during holiday meal preparations, noting that unattended cooking remains one of the leading causes of home fires nationwide.
“After nearly three decades of responding to fire emergencies in our community, we understand how devastating these incidents can be for families and businesses,” said Scott Clemente, Owner of SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake. “Our goal with these safety tips is to help prevent fires before they start, particularly during a season when families gather to celebrate.”
The company emphasizes the importance of testing smoke detectors monthly and replacing batteries at least once per year. Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association indicate that three out of five home fire deaths occur in properties without working smoke alarms. Fire officials recommend installing smoke detectors on every level of a home, including inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas, to ensure early detection and faster evacuation.
Space heaters represent another significant fire hazard during colder months. The safety guidelines stress maintaining a minimum three-foot clearance between heating devices and combustible materials such as furniture, curtains, and bedding. SERVPRO also advises against leaving space heaters unattended or operating them while sleeping, as these scenarios dramatically increase the likelihood of accidental ignition.
Holiday lighting poses additional risks when improperly installed or maintained. The recommendations include inspecting light strings for frayed wires or broken bulbs before use, avoiding overloaded electrical circuits, and turning off decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed. Outdoor lighting should be rated for exterior use and protected from moisture exposure to prevent electrical failures.
The company’s fire damage restoration team responds to emergencies throughout Shakopee, Savage, Prior Lake, and surrounding communities in Minnesota’s southwest suburbs. With IICRC certifications in fire restoration and nearly 30 years of local experience, SERVPRO handles both emergency mitigation and complete reconstruction services following fire incidents.
SERVPRO of Shakopee maintains 24-hour emergency response capabilities year-round, with an average response time of 60 minutes. The locally owned and operated business also assists property owners with insurance claim documentation and communication throughout the restoration process.
The release of holiday fire safety tips reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to community education and prevention efforts during a season when fire risks naturally increase due to heating needs, holiday cooking, and decorative lighting installations.
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For more information about SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake, contact the company here:
SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake
Scott Clemente
(952) 333-4210
scott@servpro10278.com
3973 W 143rd St, Savage, MN 55378
