Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office
MEDIA RELEASE –
Lack of working smoke detectors can lead to a Holiday tragedy, with increased numbers of fires due to cold weather and seasonal celebrations.
Montgomery County, Tx January 12th, 2008:
On Monday, 12-7-09 at approximately 1:15 PM, Firefighters from the New Caney, Splendora and Porter Fire Departments responded to a fire in a home located at 22195 Betty Lane –in The White Oaks Estates Community.
The fire heavily damaged a mobile home occupied by Jackie Warren and her family. Firefighters were able to quickly contain the fire but not before smoke and heat damaged much of the home and it’s contents.
Firefighters suspected that the fire originated in the Warren’s natural Christmas tree, and their suspicions were confirmed during an investigation by the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office. Investigator Roland Morgan determined that the fire started at the tree, which had only been in place a few days. Although these types of fires are not common they can be deadly under the right conditions.
The following information is courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association.
Facts & figures
- Between 2003-2007, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 250 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 14 deaths, 26 injuries, and $13.8 million in direct property damage annually.
- Christmas tree fires are not common, but when they occur, they are likely to be serious. On average, one of every 18 reported fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in death.
Here is a link to NFPA’s website dedicated to Christmas tree safety.
