As the stockings are hung by the chimney with care, it’s important to take care of your loved ones this holiday season by thinking about fire safety with your holiday décor. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), over one-third of decoration fires are started by candles, and more than 40% occur when decorations are too close to heat sources. U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 853 decoration-related fires annually, excluding Christmas trees, and 155 fires started by Christmas trees each year. Dry trees become extremely flammable, with 36% of Christmas tree fires occurring in January. Candle fires peak in December, with the top days being Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

To promote fire safety, the Illinois State Fire Marshall’s Office has launched a Keep the Wreath Red Campaign which runs from December 1 to January 2 at offices in Springfield, Chicago, and other locations. Red bulbs on wreaths turn white when a fire-related death is reported, reminding us that each light represents a life lost. Last holiday season, 9 lives were lost in Illinois due to fires.

Fire Safety Tips:

• Use flame-resistant decorations and keep them away from heat sources.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything flammable and extinguish them before sleeping or leaving.
• Check lights for damage and follow safety guidelines for use.
• Turn off all decorations when not home or sleeping.
• Water real Christmas trees daily and keep them away from heat.
• Clean ovens and stovetops to prevent grease fires.

Senator XXX says let’s stay safe and make this holiday season