As residents begin trimming trees and stringing lights, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is issuing a sharp reminder: a Christmas tree can turn from festive centerpiece to tragic fire in a matter of seconds.
Fresh-cut Christmas trees pose the greatest danger, officials say, because they dry out quickly and become highly flammable. Keeping a tree hydrated is the most effective way to reduce risk. Faulty lights, overloaded outlets, and frayed extension cords also remain among the top holiday fire hazards.
Artificial trees are not immune—open flames, scented candles, menorahs, and nearby heat sources can ignite plastic branches just as easily as dry pine needles.
“As we start to celebrate the holidays, we want to remind New Yorkers to make safety a top priority,” said Eugene Perry, president of FASNY in an announcement alongside County Executive Ed Romaine, Legislator Dominick Thorne, and local fire officials. “Spend a few extra minutes taking smart steps to protect your homes, inspect your Christmas trees and holiday decorations to prevent tragedy during what should be a joyful time.”
FASNY urges families to take simple, preventative steps to help make their holiday safer: cut two inches from the base of a fresh tree before placing it in the stand, add water daily, keep trees at least three feet from any heat source, ensure they don’t block exits, and use only well-maintained lights and decorations.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) data underscores the risk. Half of all Christmas tree fires occur between 3 p.m. and midnight, with most starting in living rooms or dens. Electrical failures account for more than a third of incidents, while one in five fires begin when a heat source is placed too close to the tree.
New York State has recorded 107 home fire deaths so far in 2025, placing it among the highest in the nation, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. “Let’s keep this number from going any higher,” Romaine said.