Christmas tree fires may not be common, when they do occur, they are more likely to cause serious damage. Fires involving fresh Christmas trees tend to be more common than artificial tree fires, in part because fresh Christmas trees dry out over time, making them more flammable the longer they’re in the home; and a dried-out Christmas tree will burn much more quickly than a well-watered one. Decorations may also put your home at risk including old, frayed wires, unattended candles, and outlets or surge protectors that are crammed with too many plugs.

The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) along with Nassau and Suffolk County fire officials are hosting Christmas tree and decoration safety demos to remind Long Islanders of the dangers that can quickly take the holidays from festive to fire! 

On Tuesday, December 3 starting at 11 am at the Nassau County Fire Academy and then again on Monday, December 9 starting at 11 am at the Suffolk County Fire Academy a LIVE burn demonstration of how fast a dried-out Christmas tree will light up.  

New York State ranks high in the nation in home fire deaths at 105 deaths in 2024, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, and FASNY urges New Yorkers to follow these tips to prevent more damage and have a safe Christmas: 

• For a fresh tree, cut 2 inches (5 cm) from the base of the trunk before placing it in the stand. Add water daily to keep the tree well hydrated.
• Trees should be placed at least 3 feet (1 m) away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit, such as a door or window.
• Ensure that decorative lights are in good working order and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

County and State Fire officials will be available to share tips on how to make your holidays ‘merry and bright’ by properly using seasonal and holiday candles, menorah candles, decorative lighting and electric cords.  

WHEN/WHERE: 

• Tuesday, December 3, 2024 starting at 11 am at the Nassau County Fire Academy, 300 Winding Road, Old Bethpage, NY 
• Monday, December 9, 2024 starting at 11 am at the Suffolk County Fire Academy, 102 East Ave., Yaphank, NY

WHY: Tree safety needs to be taken seriously, as U.S fire departments responded to an average of 160 home structure fires in 2016-2020 that resulted in 2 civilian deaths, 11 civilian injuries, and $12 million in direct property damage. According to the NFPA, Christmas tree fires in US homes include these key findings, reflecting annual averages between 2018 and 2022:

• Christmas tree fires are more common between 3 p.m. and midnight, accounting for one-half of associated fires. Another 26 percent of fires occurred between 9am and 3pm
• Approximately two of every five home Christmas tree fires started in the living room, family room, or den.
• Electrical failures or malfunctions were factors in more than one-third (34 percent) of Christmas tree fires.
• In one-fifth (20 percent) of Christmas tree fires, some type of heat source was placed too close to the tree.