Christmas tree fire video nasty

From the archive, first published Tuesday 5th Dec 2006.

Firefighters have released a "video nasty" showing the dangers posed by the humble Christmas tree.

They have created a short film in which a tree catches fire. The blaze fills a living room with smoke within seconds and turns the room into an inferno.

Community fire safety officer Richard Haggar, of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We simulated a candle fire at the base of the tree and it shows how quickly the tree caught fire since it was being dried out.

"The room went from nothing to a total burn-out in 90 seconds, which is devastating."

Mr Haggar said the film was aiming to broadcast a serious message at a light-hearted time of year.

"We have an increase in incidents at this time of year because people bring in extra things that are combustibles, such as presents, wrapping paper, decorations, Christmas trees and candles.

"People are enjoying themselves, they like a tipple and maybe start cooking when they've had a few and it takes their mind off of it. They relax more, they are in a family environment and they feel safe and warm.

"We want people to exercise extra vigilance. Check smoke alarms, clean it out, make sure the battery is in it.

"We are trying to make people more aware and drive down incidences and make sure people can enjoy the festive season safely."

Mr Haggar recalled a family from Thackley who were observing a Polish tradition by lighting candles on the Christmas tree in January.

The tree caught light, engulfing the dining room. It left several family members with burns.

Mr Haggar said: "If a Christmas tree is dry and tindered it can light from a candle very easily.

"While we want people to practice their cultures, we want them to be careful. If people are putting candles on trees they should stay with them at all times. If they do need to leave the room, they should take the candles off and dry them out."

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Craig McIntosh said the festive period was appropriate for the film, which can be seen at www.westyorksfire.gov.uk, as well as at community fire safety events and a big screen at Leeds Bradford Airport.

He added: "It's no coincidence we wanted to premiere the film around Christmas because it's a time of year when so sadly many families' celebrations turn sour. Faulty Christmas tree lights, overloaded electrical sockets, seasonal over-indulgence all signal danger in the home.

"I don't want this Yuletide to bring any more tragedy. I want people to enjoy themselves in safety by showing the reality of how rapidly fire can turn their house into an inferno."

e-mail: jonathan.walton@bradford.newsquest.co.uk