Quick thinking saves Lynnwood home from Christmas tree fire

By Mario Lotmore | Lynnwood Times Staff

Lynnwood, Wash. (January 2, 2021) – Today around 4:30 p.m., South County Fire responded to a call of a Christmas tree fire in a Spruce Park neighborhood home in Lynnwood.  As the tree burned, the homeowner sprung into action by quickly removing the tree and placing it outside onto the front lawn.

Besides a melted overhang, there was little to no damage to the home and no injuries reported.  Fire crews set up fans to remove the stench of smoke inside the home.  A cause to the fire has yet to be released.

According to the National Fire Protection Association almost one third of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems and another one fifth of all fires are caused by a tree being too close to a heat source. 

Between 2014-2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of two deaths, 14 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually. Christmas tree fires are not common but when it occurs, a dry tree can be engulfed in flames within one minute.

U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 770 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees, in 2014-2018. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian fire deaths, 30 civilian fire injuries and $11 million in direct property damage.

Here are some after Christmas reminders:

• Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.
• Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.