Hillcrest Fire Company Urges Chanukah Safety Measures

Rockland Daily Staff

The Hillcrest Fire Department urges the Monsey community to be aware and practice the following safety measures during Chanukah. 

Chief among them is choosing a sturdy menorah made of fire-safe materials. 

The menorah's placement is of particular importance. Make sure first to clear the table of all flammable materials. A menorah should never be placed in closed areas like bookshelves. A menorah placed near the window should not be within range of the curtains. A burning menorah should never be left unattended, nor with children or pets playing nearby. 

Hillcrest Fire Company also warns against using the pre-filled plastic cups directly inside the menorah as the plastic can drip and melt or ignite and create a hazard. Instead, pour the oil directly into the menorah rather than lighting the wick inside the plastic.

Finally, as water will not put out an oil fire, always keep a fire extinguisher in the home for emergency use. 

"We want everyone to have an enjoyable Chanukah,"  Orin Ben-Jacob Hillcrest Fire Company Captain shares with Rockland Daily Readers, "but remember to celebrate safely and follow the tips we have provided. In case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.."