Palatine Fire Department hopes to keep wreaths red

The Palatine Fire Department is again participating in the annual "Keep the Wreath Red" holiday safety program aimed at raising fire safety awareness during the holidays.

Between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, a wreath will be decorated only in red lights at each of the department's five fire stations. In the event of a "holiday-related fire," the department will exchange a red bulb with a white bulb. Officials hope residents who pass by the wreaths will consider potential fire safety problems and take the time to correct them.

Some safety considerations include: check all holiday lighting for wear or damaged wiring and replace as needed; use indoor/outdoor lighting and extension cords where they are intended; do not run lighting or extension cords through windows, doors or across sidewalks; do not overload electrical cords; if displaying a live tree, use a sturdy tree stand and water the tree often; and keep the tree, wreaths and all holiday decorations away from any heat sources.