8 Sneaky Causes of Christmas Tree Fires (and How to Avoid Them)
There's no denying the charm of a real Christmas tree: picking out the perfect one at a local farm (a cherished family holiday tradition for many), enjoying the fresh scent that fills your home and admiring its natural beauty. But while the benefits are plenty, a real tree can pose a fire hazard if not handled with care.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments responded to 155 home fires sparked by real Christmas trees between 2018 and 2022. "It’s important to note that even though Christmas tree fires don’t happen very often, when they do, they tend to be more serious," says Susan McKelvey, communications manager at the NFPA. "That’s because they are large combustible objects in the home that, once ignited, can grow and spread very quickly."
To help ensure your holiday season is both festive and safe, we’re sharing expert tips from the NFPA and Dan DiClerico, the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab. Keep these pointers in mind before decking out your tree this year.
1. Not conducting an electrical check.
Winter is the perfect time to ensure your home is free from electrical malfunctions that could lead to fires. "Watch for warning sign like flickering or dimming lights, frequent tripping of circuit breakers, a tingling sensation when you touch electrical devices, a burning or rubbery smell coming from appliances and discolored, warm or sparking wall outlets," says DiClerico.
2. Picking a too-dry tree.
To check if your tree is fresh, hold it upright and give the trunk a firm bounce on the ground. If an excessive number of needles fall off, it’s a sign the tree is too dry and could pose a fire hazard — it's best to skip it and look for a fresher option.
3. Placing your tree near candles or other heat sources.
The NFPA found that nearly 20% of Christmas tree fires were caused by lamps or bulbs, while 11% resulted from candles. Additionally, Christmas trees placed near other heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators and heat vents, significantly increase the risk of fire. "When placing your Christmas tree, make sure it’s at least three feet from any heat sources, like a fireplace or radiator," says DiClerico.
If you're enjoying time by a wood-burning fireplace, DiClerico recommends using a sturdy metal screen to contain embers and prevent them from igniting the tree or other flammable objects. Additionally, always position your tree away from any exits to ensure a clear and safe escape route for you and your family in the event of a fire.
4. Being careless with outlets and cords.
DiClerico recommends using faceplates on all receptacle outlets and switches to ensure safety. He also advises caution with rugs: "A common mistake people make during the holidays is running cords under rugs. The wear and tear this causes can fray the cord and potentially ignite the rug," he explains.
To prevent wiring from overheating, avoid plugging more than one space heater or other heat-producing appliance into the same outlet.
5. Not watering your tree frequently enough.
Natural trees require some maintenance to ensure a safe holiday season. Once your tree is decorated, don’t neglect it — regular care is essential. Check the tree’s water level daily to ensure its needles stay hydrated and prevent it from drying out. (The NFPA emphasizes the importance of adding water daily to maintain the tree’s freshness and reduce fire risks.) Use a sturdy tree stand capable of holding at least one gallon of water to keep the tree healthy.
6. Going overboard with the lights.
As good as they may look, "the more, the better" approach is not the right solution for Christmas tree lights. Get into the habit of checking your Christmas lights' packaging to confirm the power output and that they're fit for indoor use. What's more, be mindful of plugging too many lights into a single power strip or outlet. Stick to no more than three strings of lights in one series.
7. Using damaged lights.
Inspect all your holiday string lights carefully before stringing them on your Christmas tree. Check for any loose or missing bulbs and examine the cords for signs of wear or damage. If you find any issues, don’t risk using them — replace the faulty lights immediately.
8. Leaving your tree up for too long.
We've said it before and we'll say it again: Dried-out trees can cause a fire. Once you've dismantled your tree for the holiday season, don't let it linger — research recycling programs in your area to find the best disposal method.
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