So if you are concerned about a fire starting from your Christmas tree this year, statistics show that Christmas trees are fire hazards but do not spontaneously combust. The National Christmas Tree Association makes this point in its Holiday Safety Facts.

• Approximately one tenth of one percent (0.12%) of residential fires involve a Christmas Tree — both real and artificial.
• At NO time can a real Christmas tree START or CAUSE a fire. Christmas trees do not spontaneously combust.
• In 1998 more than 32 million real Christmas trees were used in the U.S. Of these, only 0.00093% were ignited in home fires.
• Christmas trees are not as likely to be the first item ignited in residential fires as many other common household items:
• newspapers and magazines — 13 times more likely
• boxes or bags — 10 times more likely
• curtains or drapes — 9 times more likely
• Overloaded electric outlets and faulty wires are the most common causes of holiday fires in residences – these types of fires can be just as dangerous with an artificial tree.

NFPA estimates that Christmas trees, both natural and artificial were the items first ignited in an estimated average of 250 reported home structure fires per year during 2003-2007. These fires caused an estimated average of 14 civilian deaths, 26 civilian injuries, and $13.8 million in direct property damage per year.

During the same period, holiday lights and other decorative lighting with line voltage were involved in an estimated average of 170 home structure fires per year. These fires caused an average of seven civilian deaths, 17 civilian injuries, and $7.9 million in direct property damage per year.

The National Safety Council lists the following Christmas tree tips:

Christmas Trees

• Try to select a fresh tree by looking for one that is green. The needles of pines and spruces should bend and not break and should be hard to pull off the branches. On fir species, a needle pulled from a fresh tree will snap when bent, much like a fresh carrot. Also, look for a trunk sticky with sap.
• Cut off about two inches of the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand. Keep the stand filled with water so the tree does not dry out quickly.
• Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.
• If you use an artificial tree, choose one that is tested and labeled as fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.

Tree lights

• Only use indoor lights indoors (and outdoor lights only outdoors). Look for the UL label. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged light sets.
• Also, use no more than three light sets on any one extension cord. Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid tripping hazards, but do not run cords under rugs.
• Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.

Tree ornaments

• Always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places.
• Read labels before you use materials that come in jars, cans and spray cans.
• Never place lighted candles on a tree or near any flammable materials.
• Avoid placing breakable tree ornaments or ones with small, detachable parts on lower branches where small children or pets can reach them.
• Do not hang popcorn chains and candy canes on the tree when small children are present. They may think that other tree ornaments are also edible.

Our word of caution, be careful with Christmas trees and your decorations.! A little precaution now could save you a lot of heartache and gigantic fire claims during this holiday season.

We’re here to help you with your insurance 365 days per year. If you need us, reach us at info@BentonWhite.com or call our staff at 615.377.1212. It’s our pleasure to work with you and wish for you a very Merry Christmas!