Officials Warn Against Live Christmas Tree Fire Dangers

MASTIC, NY — Town officials are set to demonstrate the potential fire hazards associated with live Christmas trees.

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine and Town of Brookhaven Chief Fire Marshal Chris Mehrman will lead a dramatic demonstration to illustrate the destructive fire hazard associated with the improper care of live Christmas trees, they said.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas trees are the item first ignited in an estimated average of 210 reported home structure fires per year; the fires result in an annual average of seven civilian deaths, 19 civilian injuries, and $17.5 million in direct property damage, a release said.

On average, one of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires result in a death, compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires, town officials said.

At the demonstration, which will take place on Thursday in the parking lot at Brookhaven Town Hall, the fire marshal will explain proper Christmas tree care to help prevent fires. A Christmas tree will also be ignited in a “burn pod,” which will be furnished to simulate a living room, town officials said.

Photo courtesy Brookhaven Town.