Area fire departments want to “Keep the Wreath Red”

Excerpts from HeraldNews.com:

Residents can now easily check if there have been any fire incidents related to holiday decorations in their area simply by passing by the local fire station. A red wreath hanging outside means no decoration-related fires have occurred this season, while a white light indicates that a fire has taken place.

The red wreath is an old tradition among fire departments in Illinois, aimed at promoting safety during the holiday season. The "Keep the Wreath Red" campaign was launched 35 years ago by the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association and has since been adopted by many local fire agencies. It's a simple yet effective way to remind people to be cautious when decorating their homes.

Mary Kay Ludemann, an inspector with the Plainfield Fire Protection District, shared that the campaign has made a real difference. She noted that the last time the wreath turned white was five years ago, after a candle caused a house fire. According to her, cooking is the biggest cause of holiday fires, especially due to the increased number of gatherings and activities in the home during this time.

In addition to the campaign, other factors are also helping reduce fire risks. Flameless candles that mimic the scent of real ones are becoming more popular, as are artificial Christmas trees, which eliminate the risk of dry, flammable real trees.

Jon Ibrahim, assistant fire chief of Romeoville, emphasized how technology has contributed to safer holiday practices. “It’s a great reminder for people to be extra careful during this time of year,” he said. “While decorations themselves can be a source of accidents, so can candles and improper disposal of the Christmas tree.”

Here are some key holiday fire safety tips:

  • Water real Christmas trees every day and keep them at least three feet away from heat sources.
  • Dispose of the tree safely after the holidays—never in a garage or against the house, as dried-out trees are major fire hazards.
  • Use only outdoor-rated lights for exterior decorations.
  • Avoid overloading electrical outlets; use surge protectors instead.
  • Make sure your chimney is clean before lighting any fires.
  • Always supervise candles, as December is the peak season for candle-related fires.

By following these simple steps, residents can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable holiday season.

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