“Keep the Wreaths Red” Program

The Lisle-Woodridge Fire District is again participating in a Holiday Fire Safety campaign called “Keep the Wreaths Red”.  During the month of December, all five of the Lisle-Woodridge stations will have on display a large wreath with red lights affixed to it.  The lights will remain red throughout the holidays, unless there is a fire in the District that is found to be caused by any part of a holiday decoration or display.  For each occurrence of this nature, a white light would replace a red light.  The wreaths will be on display through January 1, 2010.

“The program was actually started in the 1970's by one of Lisle-Woodridge Fire District’s former Chiefs, now retired, Chief Emeritus Paul Boecker.  The effectiveness and popularity of this campaign has grown to the point where countless other fire departments throughout the state now participate year after year,” said Captain Jay Caron, Fire Prevention Bureau Public Educator.

While fire safety should be practiced every day of the year the Fire District stresses the importance of holiday fire safety due to the large number of residential fires that occur during this time.  This program is a constant reminder for citizens to use proper care when putting together their holiday displays, including lights, electrical cords, candles, Christmas trees and other decorations.

“It’s a great public awareness tool,” adds Captain Caron.  “Our goal of course, is to have no fires, and we want that message to be loud and clear.”

Simple ways to reach this goal are:

Ø      Don’t use fireplaces to burn wrapping material, wolmanized (treated) or painted wood.  These can create toxic fumes and even a flash fire.

Ø      Use kindling wood and wooden matches to light fireplace fires - never flammable liquids.

Ø      Always use a fire screen.

Ø      Don’t wear loose or flowing clothing when tending the fireplace.

Ø      Keep flammable decorations including live trees, wreaths and garland away from the fireplace.

Ø      Don’t close the chimney flue until you are SURE the fire is completely out.

Ø      Make SURE the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.

Ø      Dispose of ashes in a metal container and never store them in or near your house.

Ø      Place candles in holders that will not tip or break.

 Ø      If you put a Hanukkah Menorah in the window, make sure it is clear of curtains and draperies.

Ø      If you celebrate Kwanzaa and light the candles of the Kinara, be sure to keep clothes and other flammable objects away from the flame.

Ø      Extinguish all candles and unplug all electrical decorations before leaving home or going to sleep.

Ø      Never place lit candles on your tree

Ø      Keep matches and lighted candles out of the reach of children and warn them about the dangers of playing with matches, candles and other flames.

Ø      Use only UL Approved electrical decorations and follow manufacturer's instructions for use and installation.

Ø      Do not overload extension cords or place them in a way that may cause a tripping hazard.

Ø      Keep electrical decorations out of the reach of children and pets as they can produce a deadly electrical shock if misused.

Ø      Be sure ALL decorations are flame retardant.

For more information about the “Keep the Wreaths Red” program or holiday fire safety in general, contact the Lisle-Woodridge Fire District’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 630-353-3030.