The Hinsdale Fire Department is teaming up with the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association and neighboring fire departments for the "Keep the Wreath Red" program. 

A wreath with red light bulbs is on display at the Hinsdale Fire Department. In the event of a holiday-related fire, firefighters will replace one of the red bulbs with a white one. The goal is to keep the bulbs on the wreath red.

"Keep the Wreath Red" is a holiday fire safety program designed to increase fire safety awareness. The program started Thanksgiving Day and will run through Jan. 5.

Firefighters want people to remember the following tips for a safe holiday season:

• Check all your illuminated decorations to make sure they are in good condition. Light strands that have frayed or cracked wires should be thrown away and replaced with UL approved devices. Outside cords should be approved for exterior uses and inside cords should not be placed under carpets or throw rugs.
• Keep live Christmas trees watered frequently. Be aware of your tree's life and when it becomes brittle, discontinue using the lights. Always turn of the lights when leaving your home.
• Use extreme caution with holiday candles and all other open flames to assure they are safe and will not set fire to nearby objects.

• Make sure your fireplace is in good working order and the chimney is free from obstructions and creosote build-up. Christmas wrappings and tree branches are not to be burned in the fireplace. Their intense and rapid burning can cause chimney fires and flames to extend out of the firebox into your home.
• As always, check you smoke detectors and make sure they are in good working order. If you did not change the batteries when you changed your clocks in October, change them now. 

Anyone with questions can contact the Village Fire Prevention Bureau at (630) 789-7060 or email fire@villageofhinsdale.org.