AV Preeminent - Peer-Rated for the Highest Level of Professional Excellence - 2024
Diana Santa Maria - Recognized by Best Lawyers - 2024
Law Offices of Diana Santa Maria - Recognized by Best Lawyers - 2024
Best Lawyers - Best Law Firms - US NEWS 2023
500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers - Lawdragon 2022
Expertise.com - Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Davie - 2022
Expertise.com - Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Hialeah - 2021
AV Preeminent - 2020 - For Ethical Standards and Legal Ability
Avvo Rating - 10.0 Superb - Top Attorney Personal Injury
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
The Best Lawyers in America
Bar Register - Preeminent Lawyers
Super Lawyers
The National Trial Lawyers - TOP 100
American Board of Trial Advocates

Holiday Decorating Safety

chrismas candles A big part of the fun and rewards of the holiday season is decorating our homes, no matter which holiday you celebrate. Unfortunately, when home decorations are used without regard to fire safety or are of inferior quality, the result can be a home structure fire.

Christmas trees can be a dangerous source of accidental fire, causing 210 home structure fires each year in the U.S. (National Fire Protection Association - NFPA). These blazes cause an average of 7 deaths, 19 injuries and more than $17 million in property damage.

Other holiday decorations are dangerous too and result in an additional 860 home structure fires annually. Candles cause 38% of these fires.

But fires aren't the only dangers. Putting up decorations can cause injury and even death during falls from ladders or roofs. Tripping can occur from tree skirts or poorly placed extension cords. Tinsel and tiny decorations are choking hazards for infants and toddlers. Mistletoe and holly are poisonous, especially the berries.

Put Safety First With Christmas Trees

Whether your tradition is an artificial tree or a fresh one, be sure to follow these safety tips:

  • Be choosy with your fresh tree. Needles should bend rather than break. Cut 2" from the bottom to help the tree absorb more water. As soon as you get your tree home, place it in water and top off the water level every day.
  • Select artificial trees that are certified or labeled as fire retardant.
  • All trees should be placed 3 feet away from any heat sources including candles.
  • Follow light strings' manufacturer's instructions for outdoor or indoor use and the maximum number of strings to connect.
  • Use lights with testing laboratories labels.
  • Check light strings for broken bulbs and sockets and frayed wires.
  • Never leave lights on when you go out or retire for the night.
  • Dispose of your fresh tree far from your home or garage or recycle it.
Be Cautious with Candles

If you enjoy the warm and festive look of lit candles, be sure to use and place the carefully. Use them only in metal, pottery or glass holders. Keep them at least 12" away from anything flammable and away from the reach of children and pets.

Discuss Fire Safety with Your Family

If you don't have an emergency escape plan, now is the perfect time to create one and practice with your family. Discuss an agreed-up meeting place and hold a fire drill.

The NFPA has a child-friendly Fire Safety Plan Story to help you create your plan.

We Have Extensive Experience with Personal Injury Accidents of All Kinds

If you or a family member has been injured in any type of personal injury, please contact the Law Offices of Diana Santa Maria, P.A. immediately. Our experienced attorneys have the right expertise to fight for the compensation you deserve. Please call us for a free consultation. Attorney Diana Santa Maria, personal injury attorney in Fort Lauderdale, will fight to secure justice for you and your family. You can reach us at (954) 434-1077 or contact us via the website.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
I'm so grateful to your staff for assisting me with obtaining medical care from my injuries. Words cannot express my appreciation for aiding me with my case. The staff is very efficient, people oriented and caring. Continue to not only provide legal assistance, but the love that makes and impact on the lives of your clients. B.B. (Premises Liability)
★★★★★
Our experience with the Law Offices of Diana Santa Maria, P.A. was excellent. Her staff is kind and professional. Attorney Diana Santa Maria is an outstanding human being and a true professional. I would recommend them 100%. R.P. (Premises Liability)
★★★★★
I am extremely satisfied with the legal services provided by this law firm. I feel grateful to the staff and to Diana Santa Maria in particular. I would definitely recommend Diana Santa Maria for legal representation in any accident matter. E.M. (Auto Accident)
★★★★★
Overall great experience, totally professional and would not hesitate to recommend! Helpful on every level of this case-from day #1 and throughout! I would not hesitate to recommend Diana to anyone in need of superb legal services! They were extremely helpful and kind during a stressful time. The office is beautiful, the paralegal team and staff are totally knowledgeable and professional. A.T. (Auto Accident)
★★★★★
My personal experience with the office of Diana Santa Maria has been one of mutual respect and excellent personal service... their integrity, personal care and efficiency handling my case. The availability of Ms. Santa Maria when required or requested and the attention to my case always included a personal touch. C.R. (Auto Accident)