SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Now that the holidays are winding down, the Scottsdale Fire Department is urging community members to dispose of Christmas trees as soon as possible in the name of safety.
Officials say Christmas trees become more dangerous as they dry out, posing a threat of fast-moving fires throughout homes.
Watch the full report and see how quickly a tree can go up in flames in the video player above.
“Once Christmas is over, that tree needs to come out of the house,” said Captain Dave Folio, Scottsdale Fire Department, in a media release. “A dry Christmas tree can ignite in seconds, and when it does, the fire spreads extremely fast. This is one of the easiest fires to prevent, simply by removing the tree as soon as the holidays are done.”
Scottsdale Fire Department also shared the following facts about Christmas tree-related house fires and tips to keep your family safe:
- Nearly half of Christmas tree fires involve electrical issues, such as damaged light strings or overloaded outlets
- Once ignited, a dry tree can create flash-fire conditions and rapidly fill a room with heat and flames
- About 210 home fires each year in the U.S. are caused by Christmas trees. These fires result in multiple civilian deaths, injuries, and millions of dollars in property damage annually
- Although rare, Christmas tree fires are more likely to be deadly than many other home fires
- Most occur after Christmas, when trees have dried out
- Remove live Christmas trees immediately after the holidays
- Do not leave dried trees inside homes, garages, or near buildings
- Recycle trees through approved disposal programs (check your city for disposal and recycling options)
- Inspect holiday light cords and unplug when not in use
