Quincy Fire Department announces ‘Keep the Wreath Red’ program

QUINCY — The Quincy Fire Department kicked off its annual “Keep the Wreath Red” program Wednesday at Central Fire Station, 906 Vermont. The program will run from Nov. 23 to midnight Jan. 1, 2023.

Each Quincy Fire Department station, along with program sponsors Ameren Illinois and Refreshment Services Pepsi, will have a wreath with red bulbs displayed. Every time there is a house fire, a bulb on each wreath will be changed from red to white.

The goal is to remind the citizens of Quincy and the surrounding area to be mindful and practice fire safety during the holiday season. The National Fire Protection Association says 30 percent of house fires occur during the holiday season. The fires are commonly related to improper use of decorations, heating equipment and cooking. These fires also account for 38 percent of fire-related deaths.