LEXINGTON, Ky. — As homes across the commonwealth shine bright for the holidays, the Lexington Fire Department has responded to some dangerous house fires this month.

What You Need To Know

  • House fires are common during the holiday season, the Lexington Fire Department said 

  • The department is hard at work to help communities avoid seasonal emergencies 

  • The department stressed there are several ways to prevent seasonal fires

Lexington Fire Maj. Jon Ott said firefighters are busier this time of year, and efforts to save lives, homes and property tend to rise.

“Like a lot of things, a lot of times people make the biggest mistakes when they're doing something repetitive," Ott said. "You have a car crash a mile from your house; woodworkers will lose a finger cutting a piece of wood the same way they do a hundred times. Even if you've set your tree up the same way the past 20 years with the same lights, check them and make sure they're good. It may be the 21st time that gets you.”

The department stressed there are several ways to prevent seasonal fires, such as checking extension cords while not overloading them, knowing how many voltages an outlet can have plugged in at once and watching candles and burning wood. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, almost one-third of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical issues.

“We recommend artificial trees," Ott said. "They don't burn quite as well as real trees. If you have a live tree, make sure it's (watered). Don't leave it in the house too long. Don't buy it too early. Always check your Christmas lights; make sure you're not plugging in too many.”

Ott said even though fires are unexpected, they work to respond within three minutes of every call.

“We've got 24 staff stations," he said. "Everybody's here; everybody's working. Everybody looks out for each other. They'll cook their own meal, and then a lot of times, at the firehouse, right before you take the Christmas turkey out to put on the table, we get a run and we come back at midnight and have our dinner.”

He said it's easy to support local groups who help people recover or even a responder this season with a simple thanks.

“This does seem to be a good community where people come together," Ott said. "We have the firefighter toy program that helps people get toys and needs. We work with the Red Cross if you need somewhere to stay. But that's just the fire department.” 

Ott added now is a time to update and review fire safety basics, going over those plans with visitors and especially for families with younger children.

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