Milton Fire & Rescue

Monday, December 2nd, 2013

Facts about home holiday fires

• One of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 40 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home structure fires.
• A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every six of Christmas tree fires.
• More than half (56%) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.
• December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 11% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.