From bulletin:

The Richmond Department of Fire and Emergency Services is once again conducting the “Keep the Wreath Green” program. Each Richmond fire station has placed a wreath lit With green bulbs in front of their fire station. If there are no structure fires in that fire district during the holiday season, the wreath will remain green. If a structure fire does occur, then one of the green bulbs will be replaced with a red bulb. By simply looking at the wreath, everyone will know how successful the community has been at being fire safe. While the fire department is anticipating a successful program, we are asking the public to remain diligent.

The significance of this year’s program is the department has seen a sharp rise in structure fires over last year. Fire Marshal David Creasy says it is not uncommon to see an upswing in fire calls during this time. Heating related fires usually increase in the fall however the recent increase is not associated with just those types of calls. “The causes have been varied” says a concerned Fire Marshal Creasy. “It shows that the public needs to be more vigilant with all types of fire causes. I would encourage that everyone take a few minutes to conduct a home safety survey of their home. An easy to follow guideline is available on the department’s website (www.rfdva.com) or give us a call on the Richmond Fire Safety Hotline (1-888-537-5967) and we will schedule a fire company to come to your house and conduct the survey with you” says Creasy.