BECKLEY, W.Va. — The West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office said Friday house fires are significantly higher this month, which is normal for the winter season.
Public Information Specialist Courtney Rosemond spoke on MetroNews affiliate WJLS: The Voice of Beckley’s “Radio Roundtable” Friday. She said many fires during this time of year are sparked by Christmas decorations, specifically trees.
The Fire Marshal’s Office recommends only using UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certified lights.
“Make sure you’re watering your Christmas trees. Shut those lights off when you leave, just in case. You never know what can happen when you’re not there.”
Rosemond also said evacuation time is not as long as it was in the past because of the increased use of disposable materials. In the 1980’s, you had an average of 12 minutes to evacuate a home before it was consumed in flames. That number has decreased considerably since.
“Give or take two minutes to get out of a house if there is a home fire. Things like Christmas trees, decorations, presents even…all of those newer materials, synthetics and things like that will go up much faster.”
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, one out of every four fires during the holiday season is caused by a Christmas tree being too close to a heat source such as a space heater. It is recommended to keep trees at least three feet away from any heat source and that they don’t block any exits.
“They’re pretty good quality but they can always melt and it can always start a fire”, said Rosemond. “If you’ve got the lights right there, it kind of fuels all of that. It’s almost like a perfect combination for what could start a fire.”
It is also recommended to keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammible such as curtains. Two out of five winter fires are started by candles.
“People fall asleep with candles. Sometimes they just forget where they are and it’s an open flame. You could have decorations hanging there or you just forget about it and it burns out, or a cat or a dog knocks it over.”
Another leading cause of fires is from heating elements during the colder months. Rosemond advises people not to use a stove to heat a home. Like trees, space heaters should also be kept at least three feet from any obstructions.
“Make sure if you do have a fireplace or a chimney you’re getting professionals to take a look at that, maybe clean it out once a year. Make sure that your equipment is good to go and inspected. We want qualified professionals to do that. You’re better safe than sorry.”
For additional information from the State Fire Marshal’s Office on winter safety, click here.