New Canaan Fire Marshal: Taking Down Christmas Trees

Taking down the Christmas tree isn’t nearly as much fun as putting it up. But the longer a tree stays up, the greater a fire hazard it becomes. All Christmas trees can burn, but a dried-out tree can become engulfed in flames in a matter of seconds. In a year where many people began decorating their homes earlier than usual, trees have been in homes longer than usual, presenting an increased risk of fire as the days go by. When Christmas is over or the tree begins to drop needles, dispose of it.

New Canaan Fire Marshal: Thanksgiving Safety

The greatest number of home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Unattended cooking is by far the leading contributor in cooking fires. Keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large family feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safe from fire. Top safety tips

Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top so you can keep an eye
on the food.

New Canaan Fire Marshal on College Fire Safety 

This month many young adults are preparing to travel to college. The student and parents carefully researched the school for the best academic experience. To this point parents have ensured their safety and security living within your home, now they will be asked to live on their own. 
There is an annual average of 4,000 fires in college dormitories. Fire can occur with on-campus housing and off-campus housing. Over 80% of the college student fire fatalities occurred in off-campus housing.

New Canaan Fire Marshal: Brush Fire Danger This Summer [VIDEO]



Wildfires are any unplanned fires that burn in forests and other wild lands such as shrubs or grass communities. They are a powerful force we must understand and respect in order to best help control them. Nearly 9 out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by humans and could have been prevented. 

The video above from Saturday July 30, 2022 is a fire on the westbound shoulder of Route I84 between exit 6 & 7. The fire was most likely caused by a lit cigarette thrown out of a car window. Due to the wind and the dry conditions the Forest Fire Danger level in Connecticut has been high for most of the summer.

New Canaan Fire Marshal’s ‘Fireworks Safety Tips’

With warm weather and family events, the Fourth of July can be a fun time with great memories. Before your family celebrates this year, the New Canaan Fire Marshal’s Office wishes to make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety. Only sparklers and “shower” type fireworks are legal to sell and use in Connecticut.  No aerial or exploding type fireworks are permitted to be sold or used in the state. (Go to the Family Fourth – you will see a tremendous professional show!)
Only persons 16 years and older may use the above fire works. Always keep at least 30’ away from spectators and structures and strictly follow manufacturer’s instructions.