Christmas Tree Fires: How Common Are They?

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers | Personal Injury

Christmas Tree Fires: How Common Are They?

Christmas trees are a staple of the season. These essential Christmas decorations can impart holiday cheer wherever they are installed. However, they are also fire hazards. This article will explain just how common Christmas tree fires are and what can be done to prevent them.

The Numbers

A study conducted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) concluded that between the years of 2014 to 2018, an average of 160 home fires were the result of a Christmas tree catching on fire. The same study estimates that these fires resulted in two deaths, 14 injuries, and approximately $10.3 million in direct property damage. 

This information shows us that Christmas tree fires can be a cause of personal injuries around the holidays.

What Are Common Causes of Christmas Tree Fires?

Christmas tree fires are often caused by product defects such as faulty electrical wiring or an insufficient electrical distribution system. Faulty lighting equipment is also a factor. Additional causes have involved heat sources, such as space heaters and candles, being placed too close to the tree.

Fortunately, this can be negated with a little extra caution. 

Here are some suggestions on how you can effectively monitor your home this holiday season:

  • Make sure the Christmas tree is placed far away from flammable sources
  • If you use a real tree, make sure it is hydrated
  • Make sure all electronics in and around the tree are unplugged when left unattended
  • When decorating the tree, ensure that the lights used are functioning correctly
  • Supervise children and pets whenever they are around the tree, and never leave them unattended

If you follow these suggestions, you should be in good shape for a fire-free holiday season. However, it is important to remain vigilant no matter what precautions are taken.

Safety Tips for Candles

Candles are a major contributor to Christmas tree fires. Here are a few tips on using them safely with your Christmas tree.

Don’t Leave Candles Unattended

Whenever a candle is lit, it should never be left unattended. If you witness a fire starting, you have better chances of dealing with it before it spreads.

Make Plenty of Space

Place candles on a clean, steady surface that’s free of flammable objects and debris. If your candle is part of a holiday decor setup, make sure the surrounding objects are placed at a safe distance.

Trim the Wicks

Candles with long wicks tend to burn more unevenly. They can also flare up and drip, which is a hazard. Fortunately, this problem can be fixed by trimming the candle’s wick. Consider purchasing a wick trimmer if you don’t already have one. Many of them have precision indicators so you can trim your wick to a precise size.

Know When To Throw Candles Away

Candles that have burned all the way down are a serious fire hazard. Any candle is ready to be thrown in the trash when there are no more than two inches of wax left.

Say No To Cheap Candles

Unsurprisingly, cheap candles are notorious for burning disproportionally. Consider spending the extra money on a high-quality candle. They usually smell better, too.

Purchase an Alternative

There are plenty of alternatives to traditional candles that do not pose as much of a safety hazard. Flameless candles, plug-ins, and pod warmers are all much safer than traditional candles. Just make sure to unplug them whenever you leave the house.

Have a Safe and Wonderful Holiday By Following These Tips

Now that you know how to keep your house safe from fires caused by Christmas trees, you can focus on having a safe and wonderful holiday season. Remember to stay vigilant and test your electronics before placing them in the tree.

Contact the Pinellas County Personal Injury Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help

For more information, please contact the Clearwater and St. Petersburg personal injury law firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve in Pinellas County and its surrounding areas:

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765,
United States
(727) 796-8282

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712,
United States
(727) 349-1728