Safety Tips for Preventing Christmas Tree Fires

The holiday season is upon us, which means that decorations are popping up all over the area. Whether you like to decorate indoors only, outdoors only, or both, you should always practice safety measures that protect you, your family, and your property. This is especially important when it comes to putting up the Christmas tree. Real Christmas trees are beautiful, smell amazing, and add a little extra to your decorating efforts. They can also be dangerous if not cared for properly. Follow these safety tips to prevent a Christmas tree fire this year from the Hunter's Heroes Foundation.

Choose the Right Tree

You need to choose the right tree in order to prevent a fire. If you can easily pluck the needles off the branches, the tree is already too dry. The same goes for the color of the tree. You should try to find a tree that has vibrant, green needles. Any sign of dryness will most likely appear in the needles, which might be brown in color.

Keep Away from Heat

When you bring the tree inside, be sure that it is not close to any heat sources. This includes floor vents, baseboards, space heaters and fireplaces. Also keep the tree away from open candles, lights, and radiators. You should water the tree daily to ensure that it does not dry out to the point where it can catch fire.

Check the Lights

Be sure you check the lights prior to stringing them on the tree this year. You want to ensure that they have been UL tested. If you find any damaged lights, throw them out immediately. Do not continue to use any lights that are damaged. They can easily cause a tree to catch fire.

Turn off the Lights

Headed out of the house, even for a quick errand? Turn off the lights on the Christmas tree and any other decorations. Headed to bed for the night? Turn off the Christmas tree lights and other decorations. These lights should only be on when you are home and awake so that you can handle a situation should one occur.

Please take the time to watch this video from the NFPA on Christmas tree fires. It might save your property or a life.

The Hunter's Heroes Foundation would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday season.