The “Keep the Wreath Green” campaign has been part of the Merrill Fire Department since the early 1980s. The campaign was started as a way to remind residents of the importance of fire safety especially during the holiday season. The wreath is located on the northeast wall of the fire station near the firefighter memorial.
The campaign starts on Thanksgiving Day and goes through New Year’s Day. The wreath starts out with all green bulbs which are changed to red when the Merrill Fire Department responds to reportable structure fires. You will notice one white bulb at the top of the wreath which is used to signify fallen firefighters and new this year is one blue bulb which is to signify fallen law enforcement officers.
“The purpose of the wreath is to give a visual reminder of the importance of fire safety during the holiday season and to remind residents to use extra caution to prevent fires,” said Merrill Fire Department firefighter Jon Leiskau. “A house fire is traumatic no matter what time of the year; however, they can be even more devastating when they happen during the holiday season.”
A few helpful tips for doing your part in preventing fires are keeping your tree watered, not having open flames or candles near flammable materials, being careful not to overload electrical outlets along with not leaving cooking processes unattended. The Merrill Fire Department would also like to remind everyone to make sure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home.
“The Merrill Fire Department is ready to respond 365 days a year 24 hours a day, however preventing fires is our ultimate goal,” Leiskau added. “Please do your part to keep it a safe and happy holiday season.”