Evanston, IL – Fire officials are warning residents to take extra precautions this holiday season, as faulty wiring is responsible for nearly half of all Christmas tree fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
The Evanston Fire Department shared a new safety message this week in partnership with the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board (NIFSAB). The department posted a video showing how quickly a Christmas tree fire can spread — and how effective home fire sprinklers can be in preventing tragedy.
According to NIFSAB, holiday decorations and dry trees can ignite within seconds, turning a festive display into a dangerous blaze. Firefighters recommend checking light strands for frayed cords, keeping trees well-watered, and ensuring electrical outlets aren’t overloaded.
“Don’t let a home fire disrupt your holidays,” NIFSAB said in the shared post. “Sprinklers and simple safety steps can make all the difference.”
Residents are urged to unplug holiday lights when leaving home or going to bed and to dispose of dry trees promptly after the season ends.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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