18 Fires Spark In Cherokee During Holidays

CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA — Cherokee County firefighters responded to 18 structure fires during their "Keep the Wreath Green" holiday campaign, fire officials said Friday.

The campaign, which ended on New Year's Day, is held yearly to bring awareness to fire prevention during the holiday season.

Wreaths at Cherokee fire stations, schools and businesses started off with green bulbs but turned red for every fire in the county, officials said.

They did not say if anyone was injured in the fires, including a blaze in Waleska.

“The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it also brings increased fire risks due to cooking, heating sources, candles, holiday decorations and fireplaces,” Cherokee County Fire Battalion Chief Michael Sims said in a news release. “The 'Keep the Wreath Green' campaign helps bring awareness to those risks and encourages residents to take simple steps that can save lives and property.”

The department asked residents to practice the following fire safety measures:

• Watering natural Christmas trees often or using artificial trees
• Discarding trees promptly after the holidays
• Inspecting holiday lights for damage
• Never leaving candles unattended
• Keeping space heaters at least three feet from combustible items
• Using fireplace screens and having chimneys inspected annually
• Maintaining working smoke alarms
• Practicing and sharing family fire escape plans

"CCFES thanks the community for its support in spreading fire safety awareness and encourages residents to continue practicing fire prevention year-round," fire officials said in the release.