Daily Health News Blog

Home fires that start with Christmas trees create a very hot blaze that can spread through a room in seconds. They are more deadly than typical fires. A National Fire Prevention Association study shows that one in 18 Christmas tree fires from 2005 to 2009 resulted in a death, compared with one in every 141 home fires overall. The US Fire Administration explains why it happens.  Trees provide an unusually large amount of fuel and can create a fire that can spread rapidly, leaving little time to get out of the house. They are especially deadly if they occur at night when people are sleeping. While this type of fire is fairly unusual, it is far more serious than any other type of house fire.  The number of Christmas tree fires has dropped in recent years, mainly because of improved public education, and increased use of less-flammable artificial trees. Many families still prefer a natural and traditional Christmas tree, and choosing one provides an annual family outing.