Oak Park FD Launches 'Keep The Wreath Green' Safety Campaign

OAK PARK, IL — The Oak Park Fire Department's "Keep the Wreath Green" safety campaign is underway through Jan. 3.

For every holiday-related fire in Oak Park, the fire department will change a bulb in the wreath from green to red as a reminder of the dangers posed by trees, faulty lights and cords, candles and burning wrapping paper in fireplaces.

"Decorations, such as trees and candles, are a hallmark of a holiday season, but left unwatered and unattended both can have disastrous results," warned Lt. Bob Murphy with the Oak Park Fire Department

According to the fire department, last year was a success as the wreath stayed green.

Help keep it green this year by following a few simple rules this holiday season:

• Water your tree daily.
• Keep your tree at least three feet away from heat sources.
• Check your Christmas lights for frayed ends.
• Don't connect more than three sets of Christmas lights together unless the manufacturer allows it.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended and keep them away from combustible materials.
• When in use, keep a close watch on the stove and oven.
• Test the batteries in your smoke detectors, and if necessary, replace them.