Editor’s Note: Although this demonstration was conducted by the Town of Brookhaven, we feel it is pertinent enough to readers in Smithtown and Islip as well. Suffolk County held their own holiday fire demonstration at the Suffolk County Fire Academy in Yaphank. We have included extra details from that press conference here as well.
This past week, Brookhaven Town Chief Fire Marshal Chris Mehrman, alongside Supervisor Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches), Deputy Supervisor Neil Foley (R-Blue Point), and members of the Town Board, delivered a striking demonstration to highlight the dangers of improperly cared-for live Christmas trees. The event, held at the town’s Division of Fire Prevention, utilized a “burn pod” staged to resemble a living room, where the rapid ignition of a dry Christmas tree was dramatically showcased.
The demonstration began with an attempt to ignite a branch from a fresh, well-watered Christmas tree. The branch did not burn, illustrating the importance of proper tree care. In stark contrast, a dry, unwatered tree quickly erupted into flames, engulfing the “burn pod” in a matter of seconds. The fire destroyed the simulated living room, including gift-wrapped packages, vividly showing how a small oversight can lead to devastating consequences.
Chief Fire Marshal Mehrman also took the opportunity to educate attendees on the proper use of Christmas tree lights, emphasizing fire safety during the holiday season.
Supervisor Panico underscored the seriousness of the demonstration: “It took only seconds for this fire to develop and cause severe damage in the burn pod. This was a frightening, first-hand look at what could happen to a home if Christmas trees are not sufficiently watered. I urge everyone to follow all the fire safety precautions and have a safe and happy holiday season.”
The demonstration was accompanied by sobering statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Between 2016 and 2020, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home structure fires per year caused by ignited Christmas trees. These fires resulted in 2 civilian deaths annually, 11 civilian injuries annually and $12 million in direct property damage annually.
Although Christmas tree fires have declined over the past 20 years, the risk remains significant. In 2020, 180 Christmas tree-related fires were reported, with 41% occurring in December and 33% in January. Electrical distribution and lighting equipment accounted for 44% of these fires, with heating equipment contributing to 13%.
The County stated that over 21 million real Christmas trees will be sold for home use this year. Between 2018 and 2020, 800 fires were caused by holiday decorations. Of those, 38% were electrical, 35% were due to wiring (cords, plugs, bad lights, or circuit overload), 20% were from heating sources, and 7% were from candles.
To ensure a fire-safe holiday season, residents are urged to follow these NFPA recommendations: Select a fresh tree. Choose one with green needles that do not fall off when touched. Remember to trim the trunk. Cut 1–2 inches from the base of the tree before placing it in the stand. Position your tree carefully. Keep the tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, and heat vents. Ensure it does not block an exit. Hydrate your tree daily. Add water to the tree stand and refill it daily. Always be mindful with the lights. Use lights that are in good condition, free of frayed wires or broken bulbs. Turn lights off when leaving the house or going to bed. For more tips on holiday fire safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.
This demonstration served as a vital reminder of the importance of fire safety during the holidays, ensuring that families can enjoy the season safely and without incident.
The County shares, in addition to the advice of Brookhaven, that residents should only buy trees from reputable sellers, avoid overloading outlets – stick to one high-wattage appliance per socket to avoid overheating – and keep cords out of reach to prevent chewing hazards for household pets.
