Mankato Launches Urgent Holiday Fire Safety Campaign Today

UPDATE: The City of Mankato is urgently ramping up fire safety awareness just in time for the holiday season. Today, the Mankato Department of Public Safety announced the return of its crucial “Keep the Wreath Bright, Prevent a Red Light” campaign, running from November 27 through January 1.

This initiative aims to prevent holiday disasters that can turn festive joy into tragedy. A wreath displayed at the Public Safety Center, located at 710 S. Front St., will visually track preventable fires and fire-related injuries throughout the campaign. The goal is to keep the wreath adorned with clear bulbs, representing a community commitment to safety.

Residents are reminded of the urgent need for vigilance during this festive season. Simple safety tips shared by the city include maintaining a safe cooking area, avoiding flammable materials near stoves, and opting for battery-operated candles instead of traditional flames. Regular maintenance checks on holiday lights and Christmas trees are also highly recommended.

“A clear bulb is replaced with a red bulb when a preventable fire occurs, and blue bulbs are added to represent preventable fire-related injuries,” the Mankato Department of Public Safety stated in a recent social media post.

The community’s response will be visually measured through the wreath’s bulbs. Each incident of neglect leads to a colored bulb, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of adherence to safety protocols. Mankato’s citizens are urged to take proactive steps this holiday season to keep the wreath bright and prevent tragedies.

As the festivities commence, the Mankato Department of Public Safety is combining serious messaging with community engagement. Residents are not only encouraged to check smoke alarms but also to act as vigilant protectors of their own safety and that of their neighbors.

This campaign is not just a reminder—it’s a call to action for the community. Mankato’s residents have the power to impact fire safety this holiday season by following these simple guidelines. The city invites everyone to participate in this critical message of prevention, urging them to keep the wreath bright and their homes safe.

As the holiday season approaches, stay informed and engaged with fire-prevention education. Together, Mankato can ensure that this season is filled with joy, not sorrow. The visibility of the wreath will reflect the community’s commitment to safety—let’s keep it bright!