So, you’d like to decorate your parent’s or grandparent’s room at the long-term care center for a holiday. That’s fun; what a thoughtful idea! Your loved one will surely enjoy the extra attention that fun decorations can bring from their roommate and care center friends. Plus, seeing the decorations each day will make them think of you in warm-fuzzy ways.
You may be tempted to bring a live wreath, fragrant candles or cute paper ornaments made by the great-grandkids, but you should know that the state fire marshal has rules in place that prevent healthcare centers like Christian Health Care Center from allowing those types of decorations in public spaces or in residents’ rooms.
Decorations allowed in a long-term-care setting:
- Decorative lighting, such as string lights, that are approved by a testing laboratory (look for a UL label on the cord). Lights can be used in supervised areas; decorative lights need to be turned off when not in use.
- Artificial Christmas trees that comply with the International Fire Code — documented and certified by the manufacturer. Read the box or product labeling to ensure the tree is in compliance; proof of compliance may be requested by CHCC. Decor items — including items made from fabric — that are noncombustible or flame-retardant.
- Tree ornaments that are noncombustible or fire-resistant.
- Decorations made of wood that is 1/4-inch and less in thickness and that is treated with a fire retardant.
- Bows and paper cutouts that are labeled as flame-resistant.
- Flameless candles.
- Artificial swags and wreaths with a label saying they are fire-resistant.
- Ceramic, metal or glass decorations.
Decorative items not permitted in a long-term care setting:
- Candles with a real flame.
- Fresh evergreen boughs and wreaths, including evergreen boughs in flower arrangements.
- Natural cut Christmas trees.
- Paper tree ornaments.
- Extension cords.
All decorations — trees, plants, displays, hangings, etc. — must not block exits, the visibility of exits, or fire protection appliances. Decorations may not be hung from fire sprinkler heads or pipes. Holiday decorations need to stay at least 36 inches away from heaters.
So, can you bring in a mini artificial Christmas tree that complies with the International Fire Code? Yes! Can you bring in a ceramic snowman figurine? Yes! Can you bring in string lights that have a UL tag on the cord? Yes! Can you bring in a wooden decor piece you made that has been sprayed with fire retardant? Yes! Can you ask a nurse if it’s OK to bring fresh-baked holiday cookies to your grandma? Yes! Can you bring in a Santa hat or reindeer antlers that have a tag saying they are flame resistant? Absolutely!
In closing, please remember to swing by and pick up holiday decorations. We recommend doing so within a week or so after the holiday.
If you have any questions about whether certain holiday decorations are allowed at CHCC, please contact our compliance coordinator, Mary Faber Wynstra, at 360-354-4434.