The holidays are a time for family, food and fun, but Geneva firefighters would be thrilled if you include fire safety on the top of that list.

Each year, the Fire Department places a wreath decorated in red lights on the front of both fire stations. The wreaths remain lit 24 hours a day during the holiday season. Whenever a fire occurs that is a result of holiday decorations, a white bulb replaces a red bulb on the wreath.

The Keep the Wreath Red campaign serves as a constant reminder to make safety a priority when installing and displaying holiday decorations.

Here are some tips on how residents can keep their home safe for the holidays:

Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet.

Consider using battery operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and feel like the real thing. For those using lit candles, make sure they are in stable holders and placed out of the reach of both children and pets.

If residents have questions or concerns regarding fire safety this holiday season, please call the Geneva Fire Department at 630-232-2530.