URGENT UPDATE: The City of Mankato, Minnesota, has just launched its critical holiday fire safety initiative, “Keep the Wreath Bright, Prevent a Red Light,” running from November 27 through January 1. This campaign aims to prevent holiday fires that can transform joyous celebrations into tragic disasters.
Located at the Public Safety Center, 710 S. Front St., the campaign features a striking visual—a wreath that will track preventable fires and fire-related injuries throughout the season. The goal? To keep the wreath devoid of red and blue bulbs, which symbolize preventable fires and injuries, respectively. This visual reminder is a powerful tool for community engagement, urging residents to maintain vigilance during the holiday festivities.
The Mankato Department of Public Safety is emphasizing the importance of fire safety with practical guidelines that everyone can follow. Residents are reminded to keep a safety perimeter around cooking areas and to avoid flammable materials near stoves. Switching to battery-operated candles instead of traditional flames and routinely checking holiday lights and Christmas trees for safety hazards are also strongly encouraged.
As the festivities ramp up, Mankato’s campaign underscores the potential for tragedy if safety measures are ignored. The community is called upon to keep the wreath bright, where each clear bulb represents adherence to fire safety protocols. Each time a preventable fire occurs, a clear bulb will be replaced with a red one; blue bulbs will highlight preventable fire-related injuries.
“Keeping the wreath bright is not just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of our community’s commitment to safety,” stated a representative from the Mankato Department of Public Safety. The department is urging all citizens to install and check smoke alarms regularly and to be proactive in their safety measures.
This campaign is more than just a visual; it embodies the spirit of community vigilance. Mankato’s residents are encouraged to actively participate in the initiative and share their commitment to fire safety. The public can engage with the campaign on social media, where the city will post updates and fire-prevention tips, ensuring that the community remains informed and involved.
As we enter this festive season, Mankato’s “Keep the Wreath Bright, Prevent a Red Light” campaign serves as a crucial reminder that safety should be at the forefront of holiday celebrations. Residents are urged to take these simple yet effective steps to ensure a safe and joyful holiday.
For more information and ongoing updates on fire safety measures, residents can visit the City of Mankato’s official social media channels. Together, let’s keep the wreath bright and prevent the red light this holiday season!
