As holiday festivities brighten homes across the nation, the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is urging residents to prioritize fire safety to prevent celebrations from turning tragic. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candles account for over one-third of home decoration fires, making them a notable seasonal hazard.
The risks extend beyond candles, with the OSFM noting that over 40% of decoration-related fires stem from decorations placed too close to heat sources. Stockings near fireplaces or space heaters positioned near festive décor are common culprits. Statistics from a recent Illinois.gov press release highlight the dangers, reporting an average of 853 annual home fires caused by decorations (excluding Christmas trees) and 155 fires sparked by Christmas trees alone. The OSFM emphasizes vigilance and proper placement of decorations to ensure a safe and joyous holiday season.
These statistics serve as a reminder that vigilance is crucial during these times of celebration. Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera strongly advises, "If you are planning to host family and friends during the holidays, make sure they are aware of your fire escape plan." He insists on showing guests all exits and designating a meeting spot in case of a fire, ensuring that everyone's safety is accounted for. The Keep the Wreath Red campaign, returning this year to raise awareness, underscores the gravity of the situation with its symbolic use of white lightbulbs, replacing red bulbs with each fire-related death reported.
Through the Keep the Wreath Red campaign, which was ushered in back in 1954 in Naperville, they aim to ensure a safer celebration by raising awareness of fire safety during these peak times for home fires. Last year, nine lives were lost to fire incidents during the season in Illinois. Fire safety tips communicated by OSFM include choosing flame-resistant decorations, keeping candles at a safe distance, and regularly watering real Christmas trees to prevent them from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. Moreover, post-Thanksgiving, it is advised to clean the oven thoroughly, with greasy buildup posing a significant risk as the largest cooking days of the year approach.
As Rivera told Illinois.gov, "Decorations create a festive environment in homes during the holiday season," but he cautions that they can also be the source of accidental fire if not managed properly. In these winter months, candle fires peak, particularly around Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. Keeping a keen eye on open flames and ensuring their complete extinguishment before heading to bed or stepping out is advice worth heeding.
