Festive holiday display lighting during Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanza is serious business when it comes to safety. Newer LED lights are also the greener choice that consumes less power and are more environmentally friendly. They are less likely to start a fire due to their reduced heat output, and their lower current reduces the chance of wire overheating. So, please be sensible about the number of light strings or other powered decorations plugged end-to-end into a single outlet or in a single room or area circuit. The NFPA says two out of every five home Christmas tree fires started in the living room, family room, or den. Electrical failures or malfunctions were factors in more than one-third (34 percent) of Christmas tree fires. At Helfrich Associates, we have been called by insurance companies after these sad accidents to evaluate damage, recommend repairs and estimate costs. Many homeowners can find themselves underinsured when replacing custom cabinetry, entertainment systems, decorator flooring, etc. So, we suggest you install automatic lighting timers. Check to see that all lighting is off before you leave home or go to bed.
Fires involving fresh or live Christmas trees tend to be more common than artificial tree fires. That’s in part because fresh Christmas trees dry out over time, making them more flammable. At Helfrich Associates, we recommend you set up a calendar with an alarm on your phone to keep up with your watering schedule. If your tree dries out, then throw it out. Don’t risk it . . . please.
The NFPA says for a fresh tree, cut the trunk 2 inches from the base of the trunk before placing it in the stand. Add water daily to keep the tree well hydrated. Trees should be placed at least 3 feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, heat vents, or lights. And at Helfrich Associates, we say never place lit candles on your tree or table wreath greenery. If your December or 2026 plans include purchasing, building or remodeling a new home, please give us a call and let us help make your holiday dreams come true. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Kwanza from all of us at Helfrich Associates. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season, including a terrific New Year’s Eve and then a fantastic start to 2026.