‘Tis the season to be fire safe!

Click here to read the STATE OF CT FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE HOLIDAY INFORMATION BULLETIN.

The days between Thanksgiving and New Year’s are busier than most.  They also involve more fire hazards than any other time of year – from candles to fireplaces and space heaters to Christmas trees.  Please take a moment to read this important information from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Christmas Tree Safety

  • 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 a Christmas tree resulted in death.
  • A heat source too close to the Christmas tree started one of every five (20%) of these fires.
  • 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.

And, don’t forget to water that tree – take a look at this video comparing how flammable a dry tree is compared to a well-watered tree.

For more information, download this pdf from NFPA and visit the NFPA’s website.

In addition, here’s one firefighter’s story about why he switched from a live to an artificial Christmas tree: https://www.westhartfordnews.com/articles/2012/11/29/news/doc50b7c1dcac341459360271.txt?viewmode=fullstory.

Other Winter Fires

The United State Fire Administration (USFA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are working to put a freeze on winter fires.  They are reminding everyone that home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. Why?  During winter there is an increase in cooking and we’re trying to keep our homes warm with various heat sources.  “Holiday decorations and winter storms that can interrupt electrical service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources also contribute to the increased risk of fire in winter,” posts the NFPA on its website.  To learn more about maintaining a fire safe home this winter, please visit the NFPA’s website where you can read more, download safety tips, find activities for children and watch videos such as this one: