Facts about home holiday fires
- One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
- Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 31 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home structure fires.
- A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every four of Christmas tree fires.
- More than half (56 percent) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle. (Note: the wooden cabinet above your kitchen countertop candle is flammable.
- December is the peak time of year for home candle-caused fires.
What can you do?
- Make sure all your tree ornaments are flame retardant or fireproof.
- Check all light strings and if one is broken, do not fix! REPLACE.
- Check live tree water three times per day. Dry air? Huge tree? Teensy pan?
- Never, ever, ever put lit candles on a tree.
- Never sleep or leave the house with the tree lit. If you forget, call a neighbor and ask him or her to turn off those lights. Even if they have to break in, it’s worth it.
- Pay attention to candles. Blow them out.
Be safe, friends!
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