Birmingham, Alabama – Holiday lights and decorations are brightening neighborhoods across central Alabama, but fire officials warn that festive cheer can turn dangerous fast if safety precautions are ignored.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), “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 organization’s national campaign focuses on keeping homes safe through awareness and prevention.
NFPA data 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 are electrical, while a quarter begin when a heat source is too close to the tree.
Candle fires are another leading cause of home fires during the holidays, with half of all decoration fires starting when items are too close to heat sources, NFPA data shows. These incidents peak in December and January.
To help Alabama families stay safe this season, NFPA recommends:
- Keep trees at least three feet from fireplaces or heaters.
- Water live trees daily to prevent drying out.
- Check light cords and unplug them before bed.
- Use flameless candles or monitor real flames carefully.
The NFPA also notes that cooking fires peak on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving, making kitchen safety a key concern as families gather.
Residents can find safety checklists, printable guides, and videos at nfpa.org/education, or reach out to their local Alabama fire department for holiday prevention programs.
