In a December press release, Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District reminds residents the Keep the Wreath Red Program Helps “Illuminate” the Importance of Holiday Fire Safety.

Lighted wreaths displayed at the Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District’s three fire stations are more than just festive décor: they are centerpieces of “Keep the Wreath Red,” a public awareness initiative that encourages residents to take additional fire safety precautions during the holidays.

The wreaths at Station 37 (120 W. Algonquin Road, Barrington Hills), Station 38 (22222 N. Pepper Road, Lake Barrington), and Station 39 (1004 S. Hough Street, unincorporated Barrington) all begin the season illuminated with red bulbs.  Firefighters will replace these with a white bulb for any fire within the District’s 48-square mile jurisdiction that is found to be caused by holiday decorations.

2022 marks the 15^th consecutive year that the BCFPD has participated in the Keep the Wreath Red program.  This year’s effort runs through New Year’s Day.

“The wreaths provide a helpful visual reminder that the season offers no holiday from dangerous fires and fire-related injuries,” Fire Chief Jim Kreher explained.

To help residents remain safe in their homes for the holidays, BCFPD officials offer the following safety tips:

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, follow the BCFPD on Facebook and Instagram.

About Keep the Wreath Red

The Keep the Wreath Red program got its start in Naperville in 1954.  It was adopted statewide in 1980 by the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association to help focus public attention on the dangers of holiday fires.

About the BCFPD

Established in 1940, the Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District serves portions of Barrington Hills, South Barrington, Lake Barrington and Inverness; and portions of unincorporated Cook, Lake and McHenry Counties.  Its primary mission is to provide Excellence in Service while protecting and saving the lives and property of those living and working in, and visiting, the District.

The BCFPD’s services are strengthened through a series of automatic aid agreements and partnerships with surrounding fire departments and fire districts.

The Board of Trustees meets the third Monday of each month, 6:30 pm, at the District’s Lake Barrington headquarters, 22222 N. Pepper Road.  For more information on District activities and events, visit https://www.bcfpd.org.

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