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As the festive season approaches and holiday decorations begin to adorn homes, fire officials are urging families to exercise caution with their Christmas trees to prevent potential fire hazards. They emphasize the importance of selecting fresh trees, placing them safely, and ensuring they are regularly watered.
WASHINGTON — Amidst the holiday cheer and the twinkling of lights, fire safety is a crucial consideration. Officials are keen to remind everyone about the heightened fire risks associated with Christmas trees during this time of year.
Although fires involving Christmas trees are relatively rare, they pose a significant danger when they do occur. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly half of these fires stem from electrical issues, while approximately 25% result from heat sources placed too close to the trees.
Live Christmas trees, in particular, can become fire hazards as they dry out. The U.S. Fire Administration warns that a dry tree can ignite and burn with alarming speed and intensity. To keep the holidays both joyful and safe, the American Christmas Tree Association, along with the U.S. Fire Administration and NFPA, have provided some essential safety guidelines for setting up your tree at home.
The first step in ensuring safety begins before the tree even enters your home. Experts advise selecting a fresh tree, characterized by green needles that are hard to remove and do not easily snap. A tree that is already shedding its needles significantly increases the risk of fire.
Choose a fresh tree
Safety starts before the tree even enters your home. Experts recommend choosing a fresh tree with green needles that are difficult to pull off and don’t break easily. A tree that is already shedding needles is more likely to catch fire.
Place trees away from heat
Once inside, place your tree at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles and heating vents. Make sure the tree does not block doorways or exits in case of an emergency.
Water your tree
Keeping a live tree watered efficiently is extremely important. Fire officials advise filling the tree stand with water and checking it daily. A hydrated tree is far less likely to ignite than a dry one.
Use lights safely
Inspect all holiday light strands before putting them up and get rid of any that have frayed wires, damaged sockets or loose bulbs. Only use lights that have been safety tested and follow manufacturer instructions for how many strands can be connected. Turn off tree lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
Be cautious with candles
Keep lit candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, including the Christmas tree, furniture and decorations. Battery-operated flameless candles are a safer alternative.
Know when it’s time to say goodbye
When your tree begins dropping needles, experts say it’s time to remove it. A dry Christmas tree left indoors can quickly become a serious fire hazard.
