Christmas Tree Safety
I have always wanted to get a real Christmas tree but starting a possible fire freaks me out so bad that I just can’t bring myself to take that chance. My brother always does a real tree and never has issue but I am just not wanting to risk it with a 4 year old in the house.
The National Fire Protection Agency has some things to keep in mind if you getting a real tree.
Picking the tree
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If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
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Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Placing the tree
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Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1–2” from the base of the trunk.
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Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
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Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
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Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
Lighting the tree
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Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
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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.
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Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
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Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
After Christmas
- Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.
Please make sure those fire detectors are up and working just in case. Between 2003-2009 there was an average of 240 home fires caused by Christmas trees PER YEAR. Please take precautions this holiday season.
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Wow, didn’t know there were so many fires caused by Christmas trees. We try to follow all the precautions. It would be really sad to start a fire with one.
This is why I do artificial. I really would love a real tree. I think the smell of them would really make it feel like Christmas but I am so freaked to start a fire.