The Springfield Fire Department is reminding residents that Christmas trees must be properly cared for to avoid fires this holiday season. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2011-2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 200 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 6 deaths, 16 injuries, and $14.8 million in direct property damage annually. Other facts:
- On average, one of every 32 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 143 total reported home fires
- Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in two of every five (40%) of home Christmas tree fires
- In one-quarter (26%) of the Christmas tree fires and in 80% of the deaths, some type of heat source, such as a candle or equipment, was too close to the tree
- One quarter (24%) of Christmas tree fires were intentional
- Forty-two percent of reported home Christmas tree fires occurred in December and 37% were reported in January
- More than one-third (37%) home Christmas tree fires started in the living room, family room, or den.
To avoid a Christmas tree fire, follow these safety tips:
- Choose a tree with fresh green needles that do not fall off when touched.
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk
- Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
- Add water to the tree stand daily.
- Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
- Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed. And remember, get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry.
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