How to Prevent Your Advent Wreath and Christmas Tree from Catching Fire

Christmas time is candle time. But while some people think of tranquillity when they see burning candles on the Advent wreath, fire safety experts see a source of danger. In fact, more fires occur in Austria during the Christmas season than the rest of the year, and many of them could be avoided. SOLUTO, the expert for fire and water damage restoration, gives tips on how to get through the festive season safely and without worries.

How to Prevent Burning Christmas Trees

A dry Christmas tree can catch fire within seconds – a real risk that can be mitigated with a few simple precautions. If you want to keep your tree fresh, you should place it in a Christmas tree stand filled with water. The additional moisture makes the needles less flammable. The placement of the tree also plays a crucial role: "At least 50 centimetres distance from curtains, furniture and radiators create room for safety," explains Martin Zagler, founder of SOLUTO. "A fresh tree, appropriate distance and a little attention - this is how Christmas remains relaxed and safe."

Moisturise Advent Wreaths and Always Supervise Candles

Advent wreaths are as much a part of Christmas as gingerbread and mulled wine, but they are also notorious for their fire hazard. Especially when the branches become dry, the risk increases rapidly. To prevent this from happening, it is worth spraying the wreath regularly with water. "This keeps the fir green fresh and difficult to ignite. If you want to be on the safe side, place the wreath on a fireproof base, such as porcelain or granite, and make sure to replace burnt-down candles early," recommends Zagler. If an Advent wreath fire goes unnoticed, it can spread to curtains, furniture and walls within seconds. For this reason, candles should always be supervised.

LED Candles and Fairy Lights as a Safe Alternative

If you want to enjoy the romance without an open flame, you can opt for atmospheric alternatives. LED candles are a wonderful choice: They flicker deceptively real and do so without any flames. Electric fairy lights also create a festive atmosphere, provided they are tested and intact. If you love the magic of open flame play, you might be happy with a virtual fireplace: Apps and streaming services bring the crackling fire directly into the living room - without smoke and fire hazard.

Proper Behaviour in Case of Fire

Despite all precautions, it can happen: Flames burst from the Christmas tree or Advent wreath. Now it's important to stay calm and react correctly. A fire extinguisher, preferably a foam extinguisher with a volume of at least six kilograms, should be within reach - it is the most effective help to fight small fires. A bucket of water can also help to smother the flames in the first few seconds, provided it is quickly at hand. Fire blankets, on the other hand, should be used with caution: They can knock over the tree and spread the fire further. If the fire gets out of control, the apartment should be left immediately, all doors closed and the fire brigade alerted. "A fire extinguisher should be purchased at the latest by Advent," says Zagler. "And if you never have to use it, you've done everything right."

(Red)

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