Clay Fire Department hangs Red Wreath for holiday fire safety awareness

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Holiday decorations are popping up around Michiana.

But with lights, candles and lots of cooking, come many inevitable fire hazards.

Fire departments across the country, including our own Clay Fire stations, are raising awareness for holiday hazards.

The Clay Fire Department had to turn another red bulb to white on Monday, following yesterday's baffling house fire.

The department's holiday wreath is part of a nationwide effort to raise awareness for holiday fire safety.

The wreath is wrapped in several strings of red holiday lights. The goal is to keep the wreath red.

For every preventable fire the department goes to, they change a red bulb to white.

The campaign began on Dec. 1 and they have already changed two bulbs!

This is the third year the Clay Department has participated in the 'Keep the Wreath Red' event, and each year, they get a little more attention.

"I think there's been a lot of attention with people who drive by and ask why that is and we let them know every year there's been more and more attention to it.  So, hopefully, our word is getting out and people will be safer during the holidays," said Ron Mesler, Deputy Fire Marshal.

'Keep the Wreath Red' continues through Dec. 31.

Here are some quick tips to keep your home safe this holiday season:

• Never leave a tree unattended
  
• Never leave a candle unattended
  
• Check all holiday lights and make sure wires are not frayed
  
• Avoid extension cords
  
• Don't overload an electrical outlet