Delaware Woman Urges Holiday Fire Safety After Deadly Tree Fire

Family Christmas Tree Fire in Delaware Claimed Six Lives

Ten years ago in Delaware, a Christmas tree fire killed six members of Sher Grogg’s family during the early morning hours. The incident occurred after the family left their Christmas tree lights on when they went to bed. An electrical problem with the tree lights was reported as the cause of the fire.

According to Grogg, smoke detectors in the home sounded at 3:29 a.m. At 3:31 a.m., flames were already shooting through the roof. Grogg’s brother, his brother’s wife, and their four young grandchildren died as a result of the fire. The incident took place inside a house, consistent with broader data indicating that 9 out of 10 fire deaths in the United States happen inside a home.

Advocacy and Warnings on Holiday Fire Risks

Sher Grogg, of Delaware, now works with Common Voices, a fire safety advocacy group, to warn others about the dangers of holiday fires. She advises people never to leave Christmas tree lights on when the tree is unattended. Her warning is directed at both real and artificial Christmas trees.

Fire safety experts recommend turning off Christmas tree lights before going to bed and whenever leaving the house. They also advise filling the tree stand with water daily and keeping the Christmas tree at least three feet away from heat sources. Experts further recommend disposing of Christmas trees within 30 days or by January 2, whichever comes first.

Specific Safety Recommendations for Lights, Candles, and Alarms

Experts suggest using holiday lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory and replacing any lights with worn cords or loose bulb connections. They also advise following manufacturer instructions regarding the number of light strands that can be safely connected together. Some light sets are rated only for indoor or only for outdoor use, and users are urged to follow these ratings.

Candles are identified as another fire risk. Safety guidance includes blowing out candles before leaving a room and keeping them away from curtains, flammable materials, pets, and children. Fire safety recommendations also call for installing and testing smoke alarms on every level of a home.

Working smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are reported to make a person 88% more likely to survive a fire. Additional fire safety tips are offered by Common Voices, the National Fire Protection Association, and the National Fire Sprinklers Association.