Keep the Wreath Red Program Helps BCFPD ‘Illuminate’ Importance of Holiday Fire Safety

Lighted wreaths at Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District (BCFPD) fire stations are centerpieces of a public awareness initiative designed to “illuminate” the importance of holiday fire safety.

Through the “Keep the Wreath Red” program, wreaths displayed at Fire Station #1 (22222 North Pepper Road, Lake Barrington) and Fire Station #2 (120 W. Algonquin Road, Barrington Hills) begin the season covered in red light bulbs.  Firefighters will substitute a white bulb for each fire within the 48-square mile District found to have been caused by seasonal decorations. 

2020 marks the 13^th consecutive year that the BCFPD has participated in the seasonal safety program.

“The wreaths provide a helpful visual reminder to residents that dangerous fires can occur at any time – even during this most festive time of year,” BCFPD Fire Chief Jim Kreher explained.  “Let’s all work together to keep our families safe from fire this holiday season.”

The BCFPD offers residents the following home safety tips designed to ensure the wreaths stay red all season long:

Christmas Trees

• Select only fresh trees that are deep green in color and have a strong scent of pine.
• Water trees regularly.
• Verify that artificial trees are flame retardant.

• Keep all trees away from fireplaces or heating vents.

Lights

• Buy and use lights approved by a national testing laboratory.
• Discard any lights with frayed or worn cords, broken or cracked sockets, loose connections, bare wires, or ones that operate intermittently.
• Never use indoor lights outdoors.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets.  Use a maximum of three sets of lights per single extension.
• Do not run extension cords under carpets, across doorways, or near heaters.
• Unplug lights when you leave home and before going to bed. 

 Candles

• Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or going to sleep.
• Keep candles away from items that can catch fire, such as clothing, books, and curtains.
• Use candleholders that are sturdy, won’t tip over easily, are made from materials that cannot burn, and are large enough to collect dripping wax.
• Keep candles and all open flames away from flammable liquids.
• Avoid using candles for light during power outages.  Use flashlights instead.

Cooking

• Remain in the kitchen when frying, grilling, broiling, or boiling food.
• Clean up food or grease that may accumulate on burners and stovetops.
• Turn off the stove when leaving the room – even for a short period of time.
• Use a timer when simmering, baking, or roasting food.
• Wear clothes with tight-fitting sleeves when cooking.

For more information on holiday fire safety, contact the BCFPD at 224-848-4800 or visit its Facebook page.