As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow very large quickly. The following tips will ensure you have the freshest — and the safest — tree possible:
Picking the tree
- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Placing the tree
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.
- Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, heaters, candles or lamps.
- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
- Add water to the tree stand daily if needed
to keep the trunk submerged.
Lighting the tree
- Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.
- Never use candles to decorate the tree.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or
going to bed.
After Christmas
- Remove the tree after Christmas or when it is dry.
- Dried out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the
home or garage or placed against the home. - Never burn a tree in the fireplace or a woodstove.
- After the holidays, keep your tree in a secure location before
collection day to prevent arson or vandalism.