NHFD warns of tree fire danger

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- If you're decking the halls, fire crews want to remind you how to keep those decorations from lighting up.

That's why they purposely turned a Christmas tree into a ball of flames.

Instead of rockin' around the Christmas tree, New Haven Fire fighters ignited it.

"Our fires increase during the winter months," said Chief Mike Grant.

New Haven Fire Chief Mike Grant says candles, space heaters and fireplaces are often the cause, but the tree can serve as the kindling.

"A dry tree lights up very quickly and it adds more fuel to the already, to the room that could have a fire in it," said Chief Grant.

"Does it feel weird lighting a fire when you're so used to putting them out," asked News 8's Stephanie Simoni.

"Yeah it is, but the advantage is you're helping somebody out to see exactly what happens in the instance of a fire," said Asst. Chief Ralph Black.

New Haven Fire had a squad out just in case anything went wrong, but they want you to have your own plan in place. That's why they're giving out 2,000 smoke detectors.

"The particular instructions on the ones that we're giving out in the city's program last 10 years," said Asst. Chief Black.

The fire Friday couldn't travel, it was in a fire proof building, but it would only take seconds to engulf a home.

"You get into conditions like this, you aren't going to find your way out of the building," said Chief Grant.

That's why the chief emphasizes the big three.

"Be very safe," said Chief Grant, "utilize smoke detectors and have an escape plan to get out of your home."

For more information visit the New Haven Fire Department's smoke detector giveaway, visit the City of New Haven's website .