In 2005, there were 210 Christmas tree fires in U.S. homes, resulting in 42 injuries and $12.1 million in direct property damage. No deaths were reported.
Make Sure Your Home is Fire Safe for the Holidays
Holiday Celebrations
Holiday celebrations may put your home at risk for fire. Make sure your home is safe for the holidays by practicing safety before, during and after the celebration.
Party Safety
Use flame-retardant or non-combustible materials for costumes and decorations. Provide smokers with large, deep, non-tip ashtrays, and keep an eye on anyone who is drinking and smoking. Empty ashtrays often - wet their contents before dumping them. After the party, check cushions and furniture for smoldering cigarette butts. Supervise children and keep them away from matches, lighters, and candles. Store matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
Lights and Candles
Decorative lights
Use lights that bear the label of an independent testing lab. Throw away sets of lights that have cracked or frayed cords or loose or damaged sockets. Don't overload electrical outlets or run extension cords under carpets, across doorways, or near heaters. Be sure extension cords aren't pinched behind or under furniture, and unplug all decorative lights before leaving your home or going to bed. Never use electric lights on a metal Christmas Tree.
Candles
Put candles securely in non-tip candle holders. Keep candles well away from your Christmas tree, decorations, curtains, and other combustibles, and never put candles in windows or near exits. Don't leave candles burning unattended or within reach of small children, and blow them out before you leave the room or go to sleep.
Christmas Trees
Cut your own tree or buy a fresh one that is not shedding its needles. Cut the trunk at an angle and install the tree in a large, deep non-tip stand well away from fireplaces, exits, and heat sources. Be sure your tree has a constant supply of water - check the level daily. If your tree dries out, remove it promptly and store it away from your home until you can dispose of it. If you use an artificial tree, be sure it's flame-retardant.
