Fire Department promotes safety for holiday decor
NEW HAVEN — Trees, even if displayed in the holiday spirit, are flammable.
That was the very strong message from the New Haven Fire Department, which held a controlled burn Friday at the training academy to illustrate how quickly a tree can burn and to encourage the to public take appropriate precautions when illuminating Christmas greenery during this festive time.
The tree that was set on fire Friday at the facility on Ella T. Grasso Boulevard went from ignition to fully involved within two minutes, extended to a nearby couch a minute later, and consumed the room within five minutes, said Douglas Wardlaw, acting supervisor with the city of New Haven’s fire marshal’s office.
“That room was completely simulated with framing and Sheetrock and furniture, and it ripped right through it within five minutes,” said Wardlaw.
“So we can’t express any heavier to not leave the tree unattended, to make sure it’s watered, watch your power source. ... At the end of the night, turn that stuff off, unplug that power strip if you’re going to use it,” Wardlaw said. “I don’t recommend it, but not everybody has a bunch of outlets hanging around where the tree is.”
Among other recommendations, Wardlaw suggested that people: Create a three-foot buffer of open space around the tree, so that there is less fuel for a fire; water the tree; use appropriate lighting; avoid using a power strip, and if you do, make sure the tree is the only thing plugged into it. Also, be careful with candles; keep wires out from under rugs, so they are not abraded by friction; don’t place heaters near trees; turn off lights when not near the tree; and make sure that smoke detectors are functioning properly.
“Just be safe and aware,” said Wardlaw. “Common sense.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2014-18, U.S. fire departments “responded to an average 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year.” Further, those fires caused “an average of two deaths, 14 injuries, and $ 10 million in direct property damage annually,” according to the association website.
The New Haven department typically sees at least one Christmas treerelated fire a year, Wardlaw said.
“They’re there, they’re real, and they’re quick and hot,” said Wardlaw. “I was going to say I don’t want to scare people, but, in a sense, I kind of do, because it makes you more aware. But ... there are things you can do.”
Wardlaw said he was aware of the difficulties of this pandemic-influenced holiday season, noting that “folks are so starved for celebration and family camaraderie.”
But even with that stress, he said he hoped people would continue to use good judgment.
“We’re almost out of it. Continue to keep using common sense with these trees,” said Wardlaw. “God bless and have a great holiday.”