Hi, I am Patsieann Misiti with the Alexandria Fire Department in Alexandria, Virginia. We are here today to talk about holiday fire safety and winter preparedness. Now, we are going to look at what can happen to a dry Christmas tree. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters and matches start tree fires.

Well wired trees are not a problem but neglects trees can be. This video clip illustrates what happens when fire touches a dry tree. Within seconds of ignition the dry tree is completely ablaze. At five seconds the fire extends up the tree and black smoke with fearing gases streaks across the ceiling.

Fresh air near the floor feeds the fire. Within only 40 seconds flashover occurs that s when an entire room erupts into flame, oxygen is depleted and dense deadly toxic smoke engulfs the scene. This is what can happen to a dry Christmas tree.

Next, we are going to talk about Christmas tree safety.