A large wreath hangs outside the Marysville Fire District, lighted by several green bulbs, three white bulbs and two red bulbs.
Firefighters hope the wreath doesn’t change.
Fire districts nationwide are taking part in Keep the Wreath Green, a program that uses wreaths and lights to remind people of fire danger through the holidays.
Red bulbs are added to the wreaths when structure fires in the district happen. White bulbs are added when firefighters anywhere in the country die in the line of duty during the holidays. The green bulbs are replaced with the red and white bulbs as the season progresses.
The Marysville and Monroe fire districts are taking part in the program, which runs Nov. 21 through Jan. 1.
“It gives something visual for people to look at, and it makes them think of ways they can be safe,” Monroe Fire District spokeswoman Audrey Duncan said.
To minimize fire danger during the holidays, firefighters recommend that people test their smoke alarms to make sure they work. Visitors should know how to get in and out of homes in case of emergency.
Candles are perhaps the leading cause of house fires during the holiday season, Snohomish County Fire District 1 spokeswoman Leslie Hynes said. People often leave them in places where pets can knock them over.
“Candles are a big concern, and so many people use them for decorating,” Hynes said.
Other tips include keeping space heaters at least three feet away from combustibles such as furniture, curtains, blankets and holiday trees.
Trees should be watered daily and placed away from fireplaces and radiators.
People should toss out strands of Christmas lights that contain broken bulbs, frayed wires or cracked sockets. Power outlets should not be overloaded.
Fireplaces and chimneys should be cleaned and inspected at least once each year.
Reporter Scott Pesznecker: 425-339-3436 or spesznecker@heraldnet.com.
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