North Hollywood house fire caused by old Christmas tree

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A house fire in North Hollywood was the fourth fire in Los Angeles since New Year's Day caused by an old Christmas tree.

The fire broke out just before 4 a.m. Tuesday at a one-story home on the 11300 block of Delano Street. One resident suffered a burned hand.

Three firefighters suffered minor burns and were transported to local hospitals in fair condition. They have since been released.

Damage was estimated at $240,000. Officials reminded residents to remove and recycle their Christmas trees.

"A Christmas tree takes years to grow, but only seven seconds to light into a burning torch that can destroy lives," said LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas.

On trash days, residents can get rid of their Christmas trees on trash days.

"Put it in your green bin, or when your green bin is picked up, put it next to the green bin, and our Bureau of Sanitation will pick up the tree for you at your home," said L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Los Angeles residents can dispose of Christmas trees for free at 13 LAFD stations. For more information on those locations, visit lafd.org/news.