Christmas Trees Pose a Potential Fire Hazard

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

In our family at SERVPRO of Scripps Ranch/Mira Mesa/Rancho Penasquitos, we always enjoy a real Christmas tree this time of year, but were you aware of the following?

 Dry Christmas tree can pose a serious fire hazard. The tree and leaves contain highly-flammable oil that can spontaneously combust. ... The report states that on 'average one out of every 32 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 143 reported home fires.

Between 2007-2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 230 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 6 deaths, 22 injuries, and $18.3 million in direct property damage annually.

This is a frightening statistic! In order to minimize the potential of a fire caused by a Christmas tree, please read the following tips.

1. Give live Christmas trees a fresh cut. ...
2. Water your tree daily. ...
3. Use approved lights and connect them properly. ...
4. Inspect lights and decorations. ...
5. Toss damaged lights and decorations. ...
6. Choose your tree's location carefully. ...
7. Avoid using candles near the tree. ...
8. Avoid combustible ornaments.