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 the 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. ❆ ❆ ❆