- Between 2005-2009, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 240 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 13 deaths, 27 injuries, and $16.7 million in direct property damage annually.
- Christmas tree Fires are not common, but when they occur, they are likely to be serious. On average, one of every 18 reported fires that began with Christmas tree resulted in death.
- A heat source too close to the Christmas tree started one of every five of these fires. (20%)
- Eighteen percent of home Christmas tree structure fires were intentionally set. Half of the intentional Christmas tree fires occurred in January and may have been related to disposal.
- Each year, Fire departments responded to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer.
- If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1-2” from the base of the trunk.
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
- Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
- Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bolts for screw in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.
- Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
- Always turn off the Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
- Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holiday to prevent hazards and make them last longer.
- Source: NFPS’S “Home Christmas Tree and Holiday Light Fires”
