SPRINGFIELD – The Office of the State Fire Marshal wants to remind families about the importance of fire safety while decorating for the holiday season. According to the National Fire Protection Association more than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. More than two of every five home decoration fires occur due to decorations being placed too close to a heat source. Historically, fire departments responded to an average of 150 home fires per year that started with Christmas trees.
“Decorating for the holiday season is an exciting time, but you need to keep fire safety in mind when you deck the halls,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow.
If you have a real Christmas tree, make sure to check water levels every day. It is not unusual for a tree to drink two gallons of water the first day it is in the stand. Authorities also say you should keep real Christmas trees away from a heat source, as that can dry out a tree quickly.
