Keeping a dry tree is like inviting a forest fire into your home. Follow these simple tips to keep your home safe for the holidays:
- When you purchase a live tree, make sure it’s fresh. Needles should be green and springy to the touch
- Cut 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of the trunk before placing the tree in the stand. A fresh cut allows the tree to absorb water. Place the tree in water right away
- Fill the tree stand with water every day
- Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like floor vents, fireplaces, radiators, candles or lamps
- Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit
- Always turn the tree lights off or unplug them before going to bed or leaving your home
- Use lights that are approved by a national testing organization like UL
- Replace lights that have worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands you can safely connect. Make sure you are using the right lights for indoors or outdoors
- Remove your tree immediately after the holidays even if you think it is not dry
Christmas tree fires are likely to be serious and deadly, so make sure your home has working smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially inside and outside sleeping areas. Test your smoke alarms and practice your home fire escape plan regularly, and remember to and tell guests about your fire escape plan, too. People are surprised to learn that the place they feel safest is where their risk of being in a fire is greatest, but nine out of 10 U.S. fire deaths happen in the home.