How To Prevent Christmas Tree Fires In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — As the holiday season begins, your family may be in the process of putting up the Christmas tree and decorations. However, be aware of the fire risks associated with the holiday season.

There's nothing like putting up a fresh-cut tree, but it's crucial that the tree is properly cared for and electrical units are in good shape. According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas tree fires sparked 160 home fires in a recent four-year period, and 44 percent of them were fueled by electrical problems.

A closer look at the data show that, overall, Christmas tree fires are responsible for an average of three deaths, 15 injuries and more than $10 million in property damage every year. For perspective, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree ended with a death. That compares to one death per 135 total reported home fires due to other causes.

These fires are preventable with several safety tips. Alexandria officials suggest choosing a tree that has green needles that do not fall off when touched. If too many needles fall off, the tree may have dried out and could be a fire hazard. If you prefer an artificial tree, check for a fire resistant label.

When putting up your tree, keep it away from heat sources like a fireplace or vent. Heat can dry out the tree and make it more likely to be ignited. Before putting lights up, check for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking.

Watering the tree daily is a must. As the video below demonstrates, a Christmas tree fire can spread quickly.

Fires resulting from candles are also a big problem. The data show candles were responsible for an average of 22 home fires every day from 2013 to 2017. In 60 percent of the fires, the candle was placed too close to a flammable object, such as furniture, mattresses or bedding, curtains, or holiday decorations.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the peak times for home fires caused by candles. The fire protection group said 18 percent of December candle fires occurred in the living room and 8 percent started in the dining room, compared to14 percent and 3 percent for those areas during the rest of the year.

Here are other holiday decorating tips from the City of Alexandria:

• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Don't overload electrical outlets! Do not link more than three light strands. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.
• Never leave holiday lights on while unattended!
• All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents.
• Never put wrapping paper in a fireplace. It can throw off dangerous sparks and produce a chemical buildup in the home that could cause an explosion.
• Avoid using lit candles. If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning.
• Never put lit candles on a Christmas tree. Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame — candles, lighters or matches.