Christmas Tree Safety

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly.

 

Picking the tree

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

 

Placing the tree

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.

• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

 

Lighting the tree

• Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.

• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.

• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home
  or going to bed.

 

After Christmas

• Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. 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.

 

FACTS

• More than one of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.

• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.

• A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every four of the fires.

Reproduced from NFPA’s website, www.nfpa.org/publiceducation. © NFPA.

Evacuation Preparedness Resources 

- Register to receive evacuation notices and fire information.

- Review evacuation maps and checklists.

- Assemble a "Grab and Go" bag for yourself, your family, and your pets.

- Check out additional resources.