MASSENA -- Massena village firefighters say they are urging locals to be aware of fire hazards associated with holiday decorating.

“People are busy during the holiday season, and often forget to check for fire hazards,” says Justin Niles for Massena Permanent Fire Fighters IAFF Local 2220. “Simple things like checking holiday lights for excessive wear and turning off Christmas tree lights before going to bed can make a huge difference.”

Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Combined with faulty holiday lights or open flames from candles, dry Christmas trees can quickly ignite and burn down a home, according to Massena firefighters.

“Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious,” a news release from the fire department said.

On average, one of every 40 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home structure fires.

Massena Permanent Fire Fighter officials say they recommend keeping Christmas trees away from heat sources and exits. Watering a tree daily will help prevent it from becoming dry and hazardous.

Fire fighters also recommend using non-flammable decorations and LED lights, and caution against leaving burning candles unattended or linking more than three strands of holiday lights.