While the topic of flammable decorative materials usually comes up around Christmastime when people are much more likely to have an abundance of decorative items in and around their homes and workplaces, concern with the potential hazard and flammability of decorative items, both indoors and out is a year-round concern. Almost a year ago, the pool deck of Las Vegas’s Cosmopolitan hotel burst into flames, sending billowing clouds of black smoke hundreds of feet in the air. The pool area was evacuated and though shaken, no hotel guests were seriously injured. The cause of the fire was likely carelessly discarded cigarettes, but the quick spread and intensity of it was due to the combustible décor. Specifically, the artificial palm trees made of polyethylene, a foam plastic that is extremely combustible.

The use of the polyethylene is common in synthetic outdoor decorations, such as artificial turf, furniture, cabanas, and other ornamental items. In the case of the Cosmopolitan fire, all of these were a factor. When exposed to flame, polyethylene acts like solid gasoline. While there are life safety codes that manage the decorative features of commercial interior spaces, none specifically address the use of combustible décor on the outside of buildings. While they considered changing the codes following the fire, it was found to be nearly impossible to enforce on such a large scale. After reports found that the plastic fronds burned 10 times faster and hotter than a real tree, and the metal polyurethane foam and fiberglass resin trunk burned five times more intensely, the Cosmopolitan decided to replace all artificial vegetation with live vegetation.

While it is very fortunate that no one was hurt in the Las Vegas fire, these types of combustible decor are most often found at resorts, amusements parks, night clubs and other places that cater to large amounts of people. Places like Las Vegas and Disney World are particularly vulnerable to these dangers since they use these combustible types of plastics to create the faux features that deliver the fantasies that they are built upon.

While experts disagree on whether or not code changes are needed to regulate the decorative features, and if they were implemented, whether or not they are truly enforceable, they do agree that something should be done before a widespread disaster takes place.  As far as protecting your own home or business, it is worth checking your decorations’ materials and avoiding things like polyethylene and polystyrene when possible. As nice as they may look, safety comes first.

More information from the NFPA on the Cosmopolitan Hotel pool fire in Las Vegas can be found here.