Baltimore, Maryland – Holiday decorations are lighting up homes across the state, but fire safety experts are reminding Marylanders that one spark can turn celebration into tragedy.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns that while festive lights and greenery make the holidays bright, they also pose major fire hazards when safety steps are overlooked. “Festive celebrations, flickering lights, and winter greens are hallmarks of the holiday season, but they also present fire risks that can quickly turn this festive time of year into a devastating one,” the NFPA said in its 2025 holiday advisory.
NFPA research shows that U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated 835 home decoration fires every year, excluding Christmas trees. These incidents cause three civilian deaths, 29 injuries, and $18 million in property losses annually. Nearly half of Christmas tree fires begin with electrical issues, while a quarter start when a heat source is too close to the tree.
Candle fires also surge in December and January, with half of all decoration fires caused by items placed too close to heat sources.
To reduce fire risks this holiday season, NFPA recommends:
- Keeping trees at least three feet from fireplaces or heaters.
- Watering live trees daily to keep them from drying out.
- Replacing frayed cords and unplugging lights overnight.
- Using flameless candles or monitoring real ones closely.
The NFPA also reports that cooking fires peak on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving, making kitchen safety just as vital as tree care.
Residents can find safety videos, printable checklists, and more resources at nfpa.org/education, or contact their local Maryland fire department for seasonal prevention programs.
