7 Tips to Prevent A Christmas Tree Fire

Artificial and live Christmas trees — adorned with lights and surrounded by presents sure look beautiful! If homeowners are not careful, those trees can pose a serious hazard to homes. Christmas tree related fires are rare, but can happen.

Here are 7 tips to help prevent and minimize the chances of a Christmas Tree-related fire.

1. Pick A Fresh Looking Tree

Fresh trees are much less likely to catch fire, according to the American Christmas Tree Association. Purchasing a real tree, it is essential to choose a tree with green, flexible needles that don’t easily fall off. Whereas, brownish needles indicate a more flammable tree.

2. Keep The Tree Watered

A dried- out Christmas tree in a home is a recipe for disaster — constant moisture is key. According to the NFPA, a parched tree can burn faster than a newspaper.

Keep the tree watered at all times to ensure that it remains consistently moist. When you put it in the tree-stand, make sure the stand has a large water reservoir. A medium-large Christmas tree can absorb to a gallon of water a day! Keep the reservoir filled so that the tree’s stump never goes dry.

3. Keep Tree Away From Heat

Ensure that the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators or heat vents. In addition, never use lit candles to decorate the tree! Read about Candle Safety on Discover.

4. Shake The Tree

Give your tree a good shake! If you find that a lot of needles fall to the ground, it is a sign that the tree isn’t getting enough water, which poses a fire risk.

5. Pre-Check The Lights

Faulty lights may cause a tree to ignite, which is why it is essential to check the lights you use when decorating the tree. Check that you are only using indoor lights and consider investing in high-quality lights. Examine all strands and keep an eye out for any frayed wires, broken bulbs and any loose connections. If you spot signs of damage or wear, the lights should be replaced.

6. Turn Off The Lights

Always turn off the tree lights when you are not around to keep an eye on the tree. Whether you are working or sleeping, never leave your Christmas lights out of sight.

7. Get Rid of the Tree After 

Avoid leaving the tree up after the holidays. Dispose your tree after Christmas Day, when the presents are gone and the holiday is coming to a close. You should never put tree branches or needles in an indoor fireplace.

Watch How Quickly A Christmas Tree Fire Spreads

Source: Accuweather