Overview
- Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon warned that dry trees burn hot and fast and urged Ohioans to remove real trees from homes, garages, and porches without delay.
- Scottsdale Fire’s Captain Dave Folio said a dry tree can ignite in seconds and that most tree fires happen after Christmas when trees have dried out.
- The National Fire Protection Association reports an average of more than 140 holiday-season fires start with Christmas trees, while Scottsdale cites about 210 such U.S. home fires annually.
- Officials say nearly half of tree fires involve electrical issues such as damaged light strings or overloaded outlets, and they advise unplugging lights when not in use.
- Residents are urged to use city recycling or drop-off programs for disposal and, while trees remain indoors, to keep them well-watered and inspect light cords daily.