In the late hours before Christmas Eve in 1929, a four-alarm fire erupted in the West Wing of the White House, causing substantial concern as emergency services responded to the alarming situation. Flames were first detected shortly before midnight, quickly escalating in intensity, which prompted the designation of four alarms due to the urgency of the situation. Firefighters worked diligently to control the blaze, which spread through offices situated in the West Wing. The fire was reportedly sparked by faulty electrical wiring, raising questions about the electrical systems in the building, as well as fire safety measures at the time.

The rapid response from local fire services ensured that the fire was contained without injury to any occupants. However, elements of the West Wing sustained considerable damage, necessitating repairs that led to renovations in the following months. The incident illuminated the vulnerabilities present in the complex's infrastructure, creating conversations around the upkeep and safety protocols of government buildings. In the subsequent discussions, safety codes were scrutinized, pushing for better maintenance practices in federal facilities.

As Christmas approached, the fire's occurrence cast a shadow over the festive spirit in Washington, D.C. Public interest and media coverage of the event highlighted concerns regarding the safety of the nation's symbolic residence. The prompt action of firefighting teams and the limited damage contrasted with the potential severity of such a fire in a historically significant and occupied building, thus influencing future policies on safety in government constructions.