Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips

The smell and look of a fresh evergreen Christmas tree lures many families to opt for a real tree over fake ones during the holidays, but going all natural may cause some fire safety hazards.

A real tree can be a safety hazard if you don’t pay attention to caring for the tree and protecting it from heat sources.

As a North Charleston personal injury lawyer , I have some recommendations for consumers to ensure their tree is safe this holiday season:

• Check for Freshness: Select a tree that is fresh and less likely to dry out while it is displayed in your home. Check by grasping a branch and pulling it toward you to see if many green needles fall off. If they don’t, it’s a good sign the tree is fresh.
• Trim the Tree: I don’t mean decorate; trim a half inch off the bottom of the tree trunk to help the tree soak up water and keep it fresh.
• Avoid Heat Sources: Keep your real and artificial trees away from heat registers, space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves and other heat sources.
• Wire Right: Only string your tree with approved lights and ensure the light’s electrical wiring is in good condition. Turn them off when you’re not home or before bed.

For more tips on how to ensure a fire safe Christmas tree, visit: the United States Fire Administration website at ww.usfa.dhs.gov/safety/tips/treefir.shtm.