New Lenox, IL – Fire departments across Illinois have launched the annual “Keep the Wreath Red” program, a statewide holiday fire safety campaign designed to raise awareness about household fire risks from late November through early January.
According to the New Lenox Fire Protection District, each station displays a wreath decorated with red bulbs to symbolize a fire-free season. Every time firefighters respond to a residential fire, one red bulb is replaced with a white bulb—creating a visual reminder of how quickly preventable incidents can occur during the holiday period. The initiative runs this year from November 28, 2025, through January 2, 2026.
The program, used by many departments throughout Illinois, highlights the heightened risks posed by holiday lights, candles, extension cords, and live Christmas trees. Fire officials say the goal is not only awareness but prevention.
According to the district, residents can help “Keep the Wreath Red” by following several important safety steps:
• Unplug holiday lights before leaving home or going to sleep
• Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords
• Use caution with candles and open flames
• Choose flame-retardant decorations
• Ensure holiday lighting is UL-listed and in good condition
• Keep natural Christmas trees well-watered and avoid chemical flame sprays
• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
Officials warn that holiday-season fires often occur during routine activities like cooking, decorating, or heating, making simple precautions critical.
The New Lenox Fire Protection District and other participating fire agencies encourage residents to monitor the wreaths displayed at local stations as a visual reminder of community responsibility during the busiest fire period of the year.
More information is available at www.nlfire.com.
