Columbia, SC (WLTX) - The Columbia Fire Department is asking you to be attentive this holiday season, and keep your Christmas tree from catching on fire.
Aubrey Jenkins, the fire chief for the Columbia Fire Department says it happens more often than you think. On Thursday, the Columbia Fire Department demonstrated just how quickly it can happen.
“If it’s got a heat source near it, it’s going to go up in flames. One out of every 32 Christmas trees fires that occur can result in a death. Every year, you’ve got millions of dollars’ worth of damages to homes because of Christmas tree fires,” said Jenkins.
If a dry tree comes within three feet of a heating source, flames could ignite in seconds.
The fire department says you should also keep several other things in mind:
- Water your tree at least twice a day
- Never decorate your tree with lit candles
- Check the wiring on your lights.
Where you plug up your light can also be extremely important.
“Always plug your lights directly into the outlet. Some of these household conventions and drop cords, they get pretty hot and they can cause a short. Even those trees that are not real can go up in flames if you don’t exercise the right precautions,” explained Jenkins.
If your tree does catch on fire, you should get away from it immediately.
“No present is worth risking your life over because you know what? You can buy another present, but you can’t buy another you and that’s what’s important,” said Jenkins.
When hanging up lights, use clips rather than nails to avoid damaging them.
Columbia Fire says one of the best ways to protect you and your family is to make sure your smoke alarms are tested and working.