With the holiday season fast approaching, stockings are being stuffed, time is being spent with family and friends, and gifts are being placed under the tree.  But even with the joy the Christmas season brings, there are some risks that are always potentially there.

Cathy Bassett, Public Education Officer with the Moose Jaw Fire Department, says that some of the most common risks involve the Christmas tree, "Make sure that the tree you're buying is fresh.  Make sure the needles are bendable and if it's dry to purchase it."

Bassett says that dried trees can fully catch fire within about 30 seconds, "A Christmas tree is really thirsty, so once you do have it up, make sure you water it with fresh water it every day and make sure you don't locate it somewhere near a heat source."

With Christmas trees come Christmas decorations and Bassett suggests staying away from candles and old decorations, "I would rather people use simulated candles instead of the real ones and if you are going to use the real ones, don't leave a room with the candles going and keep them away from anything that can catch fire.

"Make sure you use good, sturdy electrical cords.  If they're frayed, they should be replaced."

Now that the home is safe from your own hazards, there's the issue of protecting your home and gifts while you're away.

Sergeant Cliff Froehlich says the best security system you can have during the holidays is your neighbours, "Let them know when you're away from the home, whether it's a couple of hours or a couple of days and weeks.  Fill them in and let them know what's going on at your residence."

Froehlich adds that making the home look lived in while you're away is another way to deter potential thieves, have the sidewalk shovelled and get someone to take the mail in.