Unplugged has become a catch phrase lately, not just for acoustic music but for Christmas tree lights as well.
In an effort to avoid another tragic fire, maintenance workers in public buildings have been asked to monitor dryness and inspect wiring on office Christmas trees. Depending upon condition, lights are being unplugged or removed altogether, according to Jack Quintana, assistant director in the Division of Facilities Construction and Management."The operative word is caution," he said. "If the tree is dry or using less water than before - turn off the lights. We're encouraging employees to turn on the lights only during public functions."
Staff members at the governor's office will spend the remaining days before the holiday sans a traditional Christmas tree.
"A crew from DFCM removed our tree on Monday," said Charles Johnson, the governor's chief of staff. "I suggested that they simply unplug the lights - but I was told that keeping the tree would violate the fire marshal's directive banning Christmas trees that have not been treated with fire retardant from public places."
In addition, Gov. Mike Leavitt has asked employees at the Capitol to discontinue using lights on the Rotunda Christmas tree except during special events.
A conclusive DFCM investigation of the blaze that nearly gutted the Governor's Mansion last week is still pending, said Quintana.
"I can't say when our findings will be complete," he said. "Right now, we're busy looking at fire recovery and gathering more information."
Authorities have determined the fire was ignited by heat generated from electrical resistance at a wire splice on a Christmas tree extension cord. The wires were fused after DFCM workers removed a switch that had overheated.
Smoke and fire caused an estimated $1.7 million in damage to the 91-year-old landmark.
The governor and his family moved Sunday night from the hotel where they have stayed since Wednesday's blaze into a downtown condominium. The Leavitts expect to stay there until the couple renting their private home can be relocated, Johnson said.
Deseret News staff writer Lisa Riley Roche contributed to this report.