CEDAR FALLS - For the first time, the Cedar Falls Fire Department is participating in the national awareness campaign "Keep the Wreath Green" on Friday with the lighting of holiday wreaths at each fire station.

Throughout the remainder of November and all of December, firefighters will display holiday wreaths decorated with green light bulbs at each fire station. Each time there is a structure fire in the city of Cedar Falls or within its jurisdiction of unincorporated Black Hawk County, a red bulb will replace a green bulb on the wreath.

It is the department's goal for the wreaths to stay green.

"The ‘Keep the Wreath Green' campaign is an educational opportunity for residents to learn and follow fire and life safety tips," said Cedar Falls Fire Chief John Schilling. "Typically the Cedar Falls Fire Department sees an increase in fires during the holiday season.

"Many of these fires are caused by candles, fireplaces, home heating equipment, cooking and holiday decorations. By taking precautions most of these fires are preventable."