Holiday fire safety from the RVCFD

When decorating homes with trees, electric lights and candles to create a festive atmosphere, the Rockville Centre Fire Department reminds residents to properly use all holiday items according to instructions, as they can cause fires, injuries and even death. 

Another important tip the RVCFD would like everyone to keep in mind is that home fires are just as likely — or more likely — to happen after the holidays as the Christmas tree begins to dry out and presents, wrapping paper and unattended decorations clutter the house.

“The holiday season can indeed be the most wonderful time of the year, as it says in a favorite song, but a fire, even a small one, can ruin the family’s celebrations,” said RVCFD Chief of Department Robert Seaman. “It is important to avoid using older electric light strands with frayed wiring or broken bulbs, and do not allow your Christmas tree to dry out; it must be kept continually hydrated.”

Chief Fire Inspector Peter Klugewicz of RVC’s Office of Fire Prevention added, “We see more fires happen during the holidays, so we are urging folks to follow the basic safety tips, keeping this festive season a safe and happy one.”

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of more than 400 people, injure 1,650 more, and cause more than $990 million in damage each year. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports between 2003 and 2007, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 250 home fires per year that started with Christmas trees.

The Rockville Centre Fire Department offers the following safety tips: 

When choosing a Christmas tree:

- Check a tree for dryness while at the seller’s lot — shake the trunk above a light-colored surface and watch for falling needles. If too many dry needles fall, choose a fresher tree. A locally-grown tree from New York may be fresher than one from out of state.

- Avoid trees with an artificial-looking green tint on the branches or trunk – these trees may have been spray-painted to improve their appearance. The paint used may be not only combustible, but could be hazardous as well. When in doubt, ask the seller if they sell painted trees.