According the the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), approximately one tenth of one percent (0.12%) of residential fires involve a Christmas Tree - both real and artificial.
At NO time can a Real Christmas Tree START or CAUSE a fire. Christmas trees do no spontaneously combust.
In 1998 more than 32 million Real Christmas Trees were used in the U.S. Of these, only 0.00093% were ignited in home fires.
Christmas Trees are not as likely to be the first item ignited in residental fires as many other household items.
Newpapers / magazines - 13 times more likely
Boxes or bags - 10 times more likely
Curtains or drapes - 9 times more likely
Place the Christmas tree well away from heat registers, space heaters, fire places, and other heat sources. These elements prematurely dry out your tree.
ALWAYS turn off all decorations before going to bed at night or anytime that you leave your home.
Don't overload the electrical outlets.
The well-cared-for Real Christmas Tree remained in relatively good condition after fire ravaged furniture and othe items in the fire demonstration.
