Holiday lights, trees, candles, and lamps can become fire hazards when not used properly, according to the Michigan State Medical Society.

The incidence and severity of fires increases during the holidays.

Christmas trees are a major cause of holiday fires, primarily because they dry out. Dry Christmas trees account for 400 fires annually, resulting in 10 deaths, 80 injuries, and more than $15 million in property damage, according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA).

A well-watered tree is hard to ignite, even when exposed to an open flame, UFSA reports.

Safety experts warn against placing Christmas trees next to candles, heating vents, or fireplaces.

Electrical fires can be another hazard. Faulty lights and overloaded outlets can be dangerous. Holiday lights should be inspected for frayed wires, excessive wear, or gaps in insulation. Wires should not be warm to the touch, and lights should be turned off when leaving home. The USFA recommends avoiding overloading electrical sockets.

Fires from candles increase four-fold during the holidays. Always make sure that candles and Menorahs are on sturdy surfaces out of the reach of children. They should not be placed near decorations, and candles should never be placed on Christmas trees.

Small children should never be left alone in the presence of oil lamps, even when the lamps are not lit, the agency reports. The oil used for these lamps is often clear and toddlers may confuse it with water.

“Please take time right now to make sure your home is equipped with the appropriate number of smoke detectors and that they have fresh batteries,” said Dr. Alan Mindlin, president of Michigan State Medical Society. “So often, fires occur during the night. A smoke detector is your family’s 24-hour-a-day sentinel.”