Holiday Decoration Caution Urged After Easton Chapel Wreath Fire

EASTON, MA — Easton Fire Chief Kevin Partridge is urging Christmas decoration caution after an open flame near an evergreen wreath caused a fire at an Easton chapel. Partridge said an investigation of Monday's fire determined that multiple candles were lit on holders near the center of an advent wreath that caught fire near the altar at the Museum of Family Prayer at the Father Peyton Center.

No one was injured in the fire, but Partridge said the sprinkler system activated and caused significant damage to the Washington Street chapel.

"We are glad that no one was hurt and this incident should serve as a reminder that evergreen is extremely flammable and should never be kept near an open flame," Partridge said.

While holiday decorations are festive and fun, and the scent of lives wreaths and trees bring out that extra spirit of the season for many, danger grows the longer the evergreens are cut and begin to dry out. Partridge suggests using fake wreaths and flameless candles, but urges extra caution around lit candles and live decorations, and said to keep any live-cut trees regularly watered.

Partridge said candles should always been burned at least one foot away anything that can catch fire, not to leave candles burning unattended and to blow them out even if you are leaving a single room, to burn candles on a non-combustible saucer or candle holder and to always keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

"Many churches use advent wreaths this time of year, but we recommend that they use fake wreaths and keep a close eye on any candles with open flames," Partridge said.

Easton fire received the fire call shortly after 11 a.m. Firefighters arrived to find the sprinkler system and a maintenance worker using a fire extinguisher had put out the fire.

There were three people inside the chapel at the time the wreath ignited. The maintenance worker heard people yelling in the chapel and helped put out the flames with the fire extinguisher. Firefighters shut down the sprinkler system and helped carry wet furniture, and other items, out of the chapel.

The chapel was closed temporarily due to the water damage.