The Waltham Fire Department along with Bentley University and the National Fire Sprinkler Association will spark fires this Friday to demonstrate the hazards that the holiday season can bring.
To do this, firefighters will burn two live Christmas trees in simulated residential environments using the Department of Fire Services’ side-by-side sprinkler trailer. The two identical trees will burn in two identically furnished rooms, one of which is protected by home fire sprinklers.
The WFD will send two engine companies to assist in the demonstration.
The demonstration shows how a dry tree burns like a forest fire in the home and that sprinklers can contain a fire in its early stages – giving residents time to escape while firefighters respond.
The demonstration is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 6, at 10 a.m. at Bentley University’s Parking Lot 8 (rear of Morison Hall).
The demonstration highlights the fire risk that comes with the holiday season, as Massachusetts fire departments have reported 25 Christmas tree fires in the past five years, causing about $1.3 million in damages.
To help prevent fires, fire officials recommend the following safety tips:
- When purchasing a tree, buy one that is as fresh as possible. Tap the trunk on the ground and grab a branch near the top and pull your hand along it slowly. Needles should not fall off or break when bending.
- Natural trees should be given a fresh cut at the base and placed immediately in water. Water it every day.
- Place the tree in a location that keeps doorways and exits clear. Place the tree and decorations at least three feet away from heaters, fireplaces, candles and other heat sources.
- Choose decorative lights that are listed by an approved testing agency such as UL or Intertek/ETL and follow the manufacturer’s directions. Consider switching to new LED lights that are cooler and use less electricity. Inspect older lights for frayed wires or other defects. Turn them off when leaving the house or going to bed for the night.
The two demo trailers. The left one is equipped with sprinklers. The right is not. 
A fire erupts near the Christmas tree. 
It quickly grows but… 
…the sprinklers come on and douse the fire. 
In the right trailer, a small fire quickly grows… 
…and consumes the entire room until… 
…fire fighters arrive and put it out.
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