Orlando, Florida – As holiday lights and decorations go up across the Sunshine State, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is reminding residents that festive cheer can turn dangerous if 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 seasonal advisory. The group continues to share fire prevention tips aimed at keeping holiday traditions safe.
According to NFPA data, U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated 835 home decoration fires each year, excluding Christmas trees. These incidents cause three civilian deaths, 29 injuries, and $18 million in property damage annually. Nearly half of Christmas tree fires are electrical, while one in four start when a heat source is too close to the tree.
Candle fires are another leading concern, with half of all decoration fires caused by items placed too close to heat sources. These incidents peak in December and January, NFPA research shows.
To prevent fires this holiday season, NFPA recommends:
- Keep trees at least three feet from fireplaces or heaters.
- Water live trees daily and discard them when dry.
- Inspect cords for damage and unplug lights before bed.
- Use flameless candles or keep real flames closely monitored.
NFPA also reports that cooking fires peak on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving, making kitchen awareness critical as families gather.
Residents can find free safety resources, printable checklists, and videos at nfpa.org/education, or contact their local Florida fire department for community fire prevention programs.
