Mankato Launches Urgent Fire Safety Campaign for Holidays

UPDATE: The City of Mankato has launched an urgent campaign to enhance holiday fire safety, titled “Keep the Wreath Bright, Prevent a Red Light.” This initiative, running from November 27, 2023 to January 1, 2024, aims to prevent holiday-related disasters that can turn festive joy into tragedy.

Officials from the Mankato Department of Public Safety announced the campaign through a recent social media post, emphasizing the importance of fire safety during the holiday season. A visual reminder—a wreath at the Public Safety Center at 710 S. Front St.—will track preventable fires and injuries throughout the season. The goal is to keep the wreath adorned only with clear bulbs, indicating a safe and incident-free holiday period.

Residents are urged to adopt essential safety measures, including maintaining a safe cooking area, keeping flammable materials away from stoves, and opting for battery-operated candles instead of traditional flames. Daily checks on holiday lights and Christmas trees are also recommended to avert potential hazards.

The wreath’s design serves as a powerful symbol of community vigilance. Each preventable fire will replace a clear bulb with a red one, while blue bulbs will signify preventable fire-related injuries. This visual indicator of adherence to fire safety protocols is a call to action for all Mankato residents to take safety seriously this holiday season.

As the festivities unfold, the Mankato Department of Public Safety combines proactive messaging with the stark reality of potential fire risks. Residents are reminded to install and maintain smoke alarms and to remain vigilant in their own safety practices. The city’s message is clear: simple actions can keep the wreath bright and the community safe.

In a community-wide effort, Mankato is emphasizing that fire safety is a shared responsibility. Citizens are encouraged to engage with the campaign online, where they can access additional fire-prevention resources and learn how to contribute to a safer holiday atmosphere.

As the countdown to the holidays proceeds, the success of this campaign will be visually measured by the wreath’s brightness—or its somber glow should accidents occur. Mankato’s commitment to fire safety is stronger than ever, urging everyone to play their part in keeping the season joyful and safe.