Christmas Tree Dangers

Each year, in the United States, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees.  Following the tips below can help make your holiday safer: 

• If you have an artificial tree be sure it is labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
• When choosing a real tree be sure it has fresh green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Before placing a real tree in the stand cut 1-2” off the base of the trunk.
• Be sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles and heat vents.
• Be sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand.  Be sure to add water DAILY.
• Only use lights that have a label of an independent testing laboratory.
•  Get rid of the tree when it starts dropping needles.  Dried out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in a home, garage or placed outside against a home.

See attached link to a You Tube video comparing a fresh tree to a dried tree.