One minute after Montgomery County firefighters set fire to a Christmas tree, it was totally engulfed in flames. In less than five minutes, the tree was a charred memory, as were the room’s furniture and the building structure itself.
Fortunately, this fire was purposely set to demonstrate how dangerous a dry Christmas tree, ornaments, candles and space heaters can be.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Chief Corey Smedley held a demonstration Friday that included stern warnings. Keep real Christmas trees watered and keep an eye on all ornaments for sparks from faulty and old wiring.
It is important to remove all flammable holiday decorations quickly, preferably by Dec. 26, Smedley said.
If the tree does catch fire, get everyone and all pets out of the home immediately. Don’t try to put out the flames. Don’t spend precious seconds calling 911. Get out of the home first, Smedley said.
On Christmas Day, a dry tree caught fire from sparks ignited by an old string of lights at a Bethesda home on Fleming Avenue off Grosvenor Lane. Family members tried to extinguish the flames themselves with a fire extinguisher and took precious time to call for help. Four people received injuries that required hospitalization.
Three family members remained hospitalized on Friday, Smedley said.
Smedley advised that everyone establish an escape route from their home and practice using it. He also said everyone should sleep with their bedroom doors closed, which will give them a few extra seconds to escape.
Also, have a smoke detector on every floor and in every bedroom.
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