Christmas Trees and Fire Safety

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Christmas Trees and Fire Safety
No one wants to spoil the holiday season, but Christmas trees in the home can present a fire safety issue. A primary concern with a Christmas tree is fire danger, often brought on by the combination of electrical malfunctions and, in the case of a real tree, a drying tree. According to a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) report, U.S. fire departments responded to more than 200 home structure fires annually from 2002 to 2005 that began with Christmas trees. Each year fires occurring during the holiday season injure 2,600 individuals and cause over $930 million in damage, according to the United States Fire Administration. In 88% of Christmas Tree fires the individuals reported pets in the home. Electrical failures or malfunctions were involved in nearly half of the fires, while nearly a quarter occurred because a heat source was located too close to the tree.

It is very concerning to me that the number one cause of Cat death at Christmas Time involves electrocution from chewing on light wires. I love all animals, especially Cats. Please be aware that although cats playing in the Christmas Tree is cute, it endangers their lives in more than just electrocution. It could also lead to a home fire.