The Peoria Fire Department is asking you to help "Keep the Wreath Red." This is the 16th year of the department's effort to promote fire safety during the holiday season.
Division Chief of Fire Prevention, Melanie Anderson, says all 12 fire houses in the city have hung wreaths with red lights.
"Every time we have a residential or commercial fire we will exchange one of the red bulbs on the wreath with a white bulb," Anderson tells 1470 WMBD. "We're just trying to make everyone aware this is the time of year we have a lot of fires, a lot of accidental fires, and everyone needs to do their part."
That means real Christmas trees should be watered and away from things that can ignite them. Lights should be U-L approved and outdoor lights should only be used outdoors.
Also, Anderson says, extension cords should be heavy-duty, not frayed and not overloaded.
Plus, keep candles away from children and pets and in a container where the wax can't drip on the floor or table.
The "Keep the Wreath Red" campaign runs through New Year's Day.
