Experts Offer Tips for Holiday Fire Prevention

Fire Chief Marc Martin has issued a warning to holiday celebrants: Make sure you party safely.

Martin said fires frequently start from Christmas tree lights and candles, or from placing a dry Christmas tree right next to the fireplace.

“It’s amazing how quickly tragedy can strike when you relax your guard,” he said.

Tree ornaments are hazardous if swallowed and glass ornaments can cut, the chief said.

The Fire Department suggests taking a number of precautions to avoid injury during the holiday season:

* Buy the freshest Christmas tree available. Martin said a good test is to shake the tree--needles will fall off of old, dry trees. Keep the tree well-watered at home so it does not dry out. A dry tree could catch fire from the ornamental lights if they touch the needles.

* Place the tree in a sturdy holder so it cannot fall over. When the needles start to fall off, the tree is dangerously dry and should be disposed of. But do not burn it in the fireplace, Martin said, because sparks could fly out and land on the roof.

* Check all tree and outdoor lights for frayed wires, loose connections or other dangerous conditions. Lights should be unplugged at night. Tree ornaments should be flame-resistant. Tinsel decoration must not contain lead, and mistletoe and holly berries can be poisonous to young children.

Wrapping paper can also be a fire hazard if it is not removed after presents are opened, since it could drift into a fire or be ignited by tree lights.

Martin recommended that smoke detectors be installed. “It’s a perfect gift,” he said.

Residents can call the Fire Department for further fire prevention advice at (714) 738-6500.