Christmas Tree Safety Do's and Don'ts

By Patch staff

Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. The National Fire Protection Association offers these tips for Christmas tree safety in your home:

TREE SAFETY

• 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 daily.
• 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. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a 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.

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