Don't Let Your Christmas Tree Go Up In Flames: Safety Tips From Toms River Fire Officials

TOMS RIVER, NJ — As people celebrate the holiday season, the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention is reminding residents to be practice fire safety to prevent tragedies, particularly related to Christmas trees.

“According to the U.S. Fire Administration, one of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems," said Bob Yaiser, public education officer for the Bureau of Fire Prevention. "The best way to prevent a Christmas tree fire is to water it every day and place it away from heat sources such as a fireplace, woodstove, radiator or space heater."

Here are a host of tips to maximize your safety:

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Before placing your tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet from any heat source.
• Add water to the stand initially and be sure to add water daily.
• Turn off the tree when leaving the house or going to bed
• Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Some lights are for indoor use only. Always read the instructions.
• Replace any string of lights with worn cords or loose bulb connections.
• Never use candles to light a tree. Keep candles away from other decorations.
• Always turn off holidays lights inside and outside your home before going to bed or leaving the house.

Additionally, Yaiser said, every home should have operating an operating smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.

For more information about fire safety, contact the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention at (732) 240-5153 or online at www.trfireprevention.com.

The following video by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (part of the U.S. Department of Commerce) shows how quickly a dry tree can catch fire and turn into a dangerous situation.

Photo: screengrab from National Institute of Standards and Technology video