Decorating homes and businesses is a long-standing tradition during the holiday season. Unfortunately, these decorations increase the chance of fire.

Russellville Fire Marshal Justin Green said this time of year leads to an increase in home fires.

“People start turning on their heat as the days get colder and that can lead to more fires this time of year,” Green said. “People also get out their candles to make their homes smell good because of company coming over and that poses a bigger risk.”

Christmas trees, candle usage and holiday decorations significantly contribute to the seasonal causes of home fires. Add to that the hectic nature of the holidays, when people are trying to accomplish multiple tasks at one time and the chance for home fires grows even more.

Candles are widely used in homes throughout the holidays, and December is the peak month for home candle fires. Statistics show that candles start two of every five home decoration fires. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn and remember to blow them out when you leave the room or go to bed. Use candleholders that are sturdy, won’t tip over and are placed on uncluttered surfaces. Avoid using candles in the bedroom where one-third of U.S. candle fires begin or other areas where people may fall asleep.

Green said even if Christmas trees look green and healthy they can still pose a serious fire threat.

“Chief Mansell (RFD Fire Chief Joe Mansell) actually had a tree that still had all of its green needles, but he noticed they were dry at the bottom,” Green said. “He took it outside and put a lighter to it and in thirty seconds the whole tree was gone.”

U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 230 home structure fires caused by Christmas trees each year. One of every three of them is caused by electrical problems, and one in five resulted from a heat source that’s too close to the tree.

Green said there are some simple tips to remember in order to keep your home safe.

If you have an artificial tree, be sure it’s labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire-retardant.

If you choose a fresh tree, make sure the green needles don’t fall off when touched; before placing it in the stand, cut 1-2” from the base of the trunk. Add water to the tree stand, and be sure to water it daily.

Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit, and is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, candles and heat vents or lights.

Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory, and make sure you know whether they are designed for indoor or outdoor use.

Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.

After Christmas, get rid of the tree. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside the home.

By following these fire prevention tips and measure, (Your Town/City) Fire Department says you can greatly reduce the risk of fire in your home, and enjoy a safe holiday season. “The holidays can quickly turn from joyful to tragic when a fire occurs,” says (Your Name). “By taking simple precautions, people can avoid potential fire hazards, and make this time of year a healthy and happy one.”