Watch What Happens When a Christmas Tree Burns

Across the country, fire departments responded to an average of 210 home structure fires per year that began with Christmas trees in 2009-2013, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

When these fires occur, they are much more likely to be deadly than most other fires. On average, one of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Dry trees ignite and burn very rapidly, spreading fire to elsewhere in the home.

Four of every five Christmas tree fires occurred in December and January. The leading causes of Christmas tree fires are: electrical distribution or lighting equipment; decorative lights too close to the trees; wiring or related equipment; cords or plugs and finally, candles near trees. This video illustrates the dramatic affects of fire when it ignites a maintained (wet) cut Christmas tree versus a dry tree.

- By ALEXIS TARRAZI/Patch Staff