Fire Department Hangs Red Wreaths To Track Holiday Fires

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Downers Grove Fire Department has hung a red wreath at each of its stations to raise awareness about holiday fires. The wreaths are illuminated by large red bulbs and a bulb will be switched to white whenever a holiday fire occurs this season.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 200 house fires were caused by Christmas trees between 2011 and 2015. Six of those fires were fatal. Each year, nearly $15 million in property damage is caused by a fire during the holiday season.

Christmas Day is also a peak day for home cooking fires, according to the NFPA. Fireworks around New Year's eve account for about 10% of all fireworks-related fires, with the bulk of these taking place on New Year's Day.

During the holidays, the Downers Grove Fire Department stresses that fire prevention is key during the holiday season and urges residents to "Keep the Wreaths Red." The large red wreaths will be on display until January 1.

>>Image via Village of Downers Grove; used with permission