The Christmas contemplation can be over very quickly if high flames suddenly burst out of the Advent wreath or Christmas tree. And that can happen very quickly, fire departments warn every year. Within a few seconds, the Advent wreath can burn ablaze or the Christmas tree can become a giant torch and set the entire apartment on fire. The trigger is usually incorrectly positioned or forgotten candles.
Households in Upper Austria burn around 500 times a year. And every fifth fire is started by candles, according to the fire prevention center in Linz.
In order to prevent things from getting that far, the state fire brigade association advises:
- Never leave candles and sparklers burning unattended, whether on a Christmas tree or an Advent wreath
- Always place Advent wreaths and arrangements on a non-flammable surface (ceramic or metal).
- The distance between the flame and fir branches and possible combustible materials (Christmas tree decorations, curtains, tablecloths, decorations) should be as large as possible
- Never leave children and pets alone with burning candles
- Use a Christmas tree stand with a secure stand or, if necessary, fix it additionally (especially recommended in households with small children and pets)
- To ensure that the gift-giving doesn’t end in chaos, always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby
- Pay attention to drafts
- Be careful when blowing out candles – sparks can also cause a fire
- Candles on Advent wreaths and Christmas trees should no longer be lit after the holidays – the branches, which are already dry by then, are particularly flammable
Image: FF Wels/OÖN
Should a fire nevertheless occur:
- keep Calm
- Call the emergency number immediately (fire department 122, Euro emergency number 112)
- Bring people and animals to safety
- Only attempt to extinguish the fire yourself if you are not putting yourself in danger
- Cool burn injuries immediately with cold water or snow; if necessary, call a doctor or emergency services (emergency number 144).
- Leave the danger area, close windows and doors
- Warn neighbors
- Inform the fire brigade when they arrive and inform them of the situation
- If the stairwell is filled with smoke, stay in the apartment and draw the attention of the fire department
Also read: Advent, Advent, the apartment is on fire
Author
Renate Stockinger
Editor nachrichten.at
Renate Stockinger
