DEHYDRATION: Don’t let your tree become a fire risk
LONDONDERRY, NH — A fire safety expert has warned dried Christmas trees can explode into flames in seconds when exposed to heat sources, putting families and offices at risk during the festive period, according to a Sigma HSE press release.
Dr. Dina Deifalla, operations manager at Sigma HSE, revealed how what many consider a harmless holiday decoration can transform into a lethal fire hazard under certain conditions.
“A dried-out Christmas tree can ignite explosively, creating a raging fire that engulfs an entire room in less than 30 seconds,” Deifalla said in a press release. “Many people don’t realize that the combination of dry needles, wood and resin creates, essentially, perfect kindling right in their living room or office space.”
Once trees dry out, they become highly flammable, with laboratory tests showing they can reach temperatures exceeding 900 degrees Fahrenheit during combustion.
Combined with lights and candles, a tree can often be one of the most dangerous items during the festive period. In offices, trees are often synthetic and placed close to computers, which generate electricity and heat that can spark a fire in seconds.
Deifalla highlighted the primary causes of Christmas tree fires include faulty lights, placing trees too close to heat sources like fireplaces or radiators, and allowing trees to become dehydrated.
“The safety risks increase the longer you keep your tree in the home,” she said. “After about two weeks, a tree that isn’t properly watered begins to shed needles and dry out significantly, creating ideal conditions for rapid combustion.
“When positioning your tree, keep it at least three feet away from any heat source, including radiators, fireplaces, heating vents and candles. and always check that your Christmas lights are in good working condition without any frayed wires or loose connections.”
Deifalla recommends several practical steps to reduce fire risks:
— Water real trees daily. A tree can absorb up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours.
— Turn off tree lights when leaving the home or going to bed.
— Replace any damaged light sets immediately.
— Use lights that have been tested for safety.
— Keep candles far away from the tree and never use them as tree decorations
Deifalla stressed that simple precautions could make all the difference.
“Use a tree stand with a good water reservoir and check the water level daily. A well-hydrated tree is much less likely to catch fire, while a dry tree can ignite almost instantly when exposed to heat or flame,” she said.
“Families should also have and practice a home fire escape plan, ensuring everyone knows at least two ways out of each room. Workplaces will normally have a plan in place, but you should ensure that all exits are clear and that decorations aren’t causing blockages.
“Christmas is a time to relax and enjoy family, not to worry about hazards in your home. These safety tips can ensure that your family are safe this Christmas when opening presents or playing board games near the tree.”
Research shows the festive season sees an increase in fire incidents, with December recording higher rates of domestic fires compared to other months.
“Always dispose of your tree promptly after Christmas or when it becomes dry,” Deifalla said. “Many communities offer recycling programs for Christmas trees, which is safer than keeping a fire hazard in your home or burning it in your garden.”