Christmas Tree Fire Risk

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Mandarin, we can give you Christmas tree fire safety advice with our professionals' help.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips

Christmas trees can be a beautiful and festive addition to any home during the holiday season, but it’s important to remember that they can also be a fire hazard if not properly cared for. While the lights and decorations may be appealing, they can also be dangerous. Here are a few tips from SERVPRO to help ensure the safety of your home during the holiday season.

Christmas Tree Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there are an average of 210 reported home fires involving Christmas trees each year in the United States. These fires result in an average of 16.2 million in property damage annually.

Christmas Tree Hazards

Christmas trees are most hazardous when they are dry and brittle, as they are more prone to catching fire in this state. However, Christmas trees can present a fire hazard at any time if they are not adequately maintained throughout the course of the holiday season.

Christmas Tree Safety

Keep your home protected from a damaging Christmas tree fire by following these practical tips:

• Choose the freshest Christmas tree, preferably one with resilient needles and sap on the trunk.
• Cut your tree stump prior to placing it in your home.
• Keep the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, and heat vents.
• Water the tree daily to keep it hydrated and reduce the risk of it drying out or catching fire.
• Throw the tree out immediately after Christmas.
• Invest in a precautionary Christmas tree safety system.
• Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Christmas Tree Fires and Holiday Lights

The heat generated by festive lights can cause the tree to dry out and become more flammable, especially if the tree is not properly watered or if the lights are left on for long periods of time. In addition, damaged or faulty lights or extension cords can present a fire hazard if they are not properly used and maintained.

Holiday Light Safety

To reduce the risk of a Christmas tree catching fire from the lights, it’s important to follow a few simple safety measures, including:

• Use lights that are UL-approved and in good condition.
• Make sure to turn off the lights when you leave the house or go to bed.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
• Use extension cords that are rated for the wattage of your lights.
• Test the lights before hanging them.
• Use the recommended number of connecting light strands.

Artificial Christmas Trees

Although you may not fill your house with the smell of fresh pine, an artificial Christmas tree may be a safer option than a real one when it comes to fires. Artificial trees do not dry out and become more susceptible to catching fire over time. However, artificial trees may still pose a risk if they are left on for too long or if they are placed too close to a heat source.

Christmas Tree Fire Damage

A Christmas tree fire can cause significant property damage, depending on the size and severity of the fire. As these types of fires spread rapidly, common examples of property damage include:

• Structural damage
• Damage to furniture and personal belongings
• Water damage
• Smoke and soot damage

Choose SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration and Cleaning

SERVPRO is here to fill your Christmas tree fire damage restoration needs with industry-leading fire restoration and clean-up services that enable you to feel confident that you are receiving high-quality, professional service from a company with a reputation for excellence. Contact our fire restoration experts to learn more about our services.