Health First, Palm Bay Fire Offer Safety Tips
By Space Coast Daily // December 18, 2013
avoid dangers of holiday fires in your home
ABOVE VIDEO: At Health First Palm Bay Hospital, Christmas trees were set on fire to show how easily they can ignite and burn.
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BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA — With the holidays right around the corner it’s important to remember safety tips when it comes to fresh Christmas trees.
The Health First Palm Bay Hospital and the City of Palm Bay Fire Rescue teamed up to help increase awareness about the dangers of holiday fires in your home.
At Health First Palm Bay Hospital, Christmas trees were set on fire to show how easily they can ignite and burn.
“We wanted to take this opportunity to remind people how important it is to be aware of potential dangers with Christmas trees,” said Health First Palm Bay Hospital Director of Clinical Nursing Yuri Mykoo.
“While minor burns can be treated at home, if you are ever in any doubt whether you need medical assistance, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.”
City of Palm Bay Fire Rescue Assistant Fire Marshal Ron Bailey said, “In addition to keeping your live Christmas tree watered, people should also be aware of the heat sources near their trees—this includes candles, heaters and fireplaces.”
ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION:
• Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires annually.
• December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.
• One out of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
• A heat source too close to the tree causes one out of every six Christmas tree fires.
• More than half of home candle fires occur when something catches fire that is too close to the candle.
