Springfield, IL – As Christmas week approaches, Illinois fire officials are urging residents to take a simple but critical step to protect their homes: check and refill Christmas tree water stands every day.
According to the Illinois State Fire Marshal, a dry Christmas tree can quickly become a serious fire hazard. Officials say keeping a live tree’s stand filled with water significantly reduces the risk of the tree igniting and spreading flames rapidly throughout a home.
“Check and fill the water level daily,” the Fire Marshal’s office advised Wednesday, noting that live trees can absorb large amounts of water, especially in the first several days after being set up. Once the water level drops below the base of the trunk, the tree can dry out quickly.
Fire safety officials warn that dry needles ignite faster and burn more intensely, increasing the danger if the tree comes into contact with heat sources such as electrical lights, candles, fireplaces, or space heaters. In many holiday-related house fires, investigators later find the Christmas tree was already severely dried out.
The reminder applies statewide, including Chicago, Cook County, and communities across northern, central, and southern Illinois, where colder indoor air and running heating systems can speed up moisture loss in live trees.
In addition to daily watering, the Fire Marshal recommends placing trees at least three feet away from heat sources, inspecting holiday lights for damaged cords, and turning off all decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
With holiday gatherings increasing and homes decorated throughout the week, officials say small preventive steps can make a major difference in keeping families safe.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert through the end of the holiday season, when Christmas tree fires historically spike.
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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