According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA,) an estimated 210 home fires begin with Christmas trees each year. Although the NFPA analysis shows that the number of tree-related fires is relatively low, it also says that tree fires are particularly dangerous. For example, 1 in 9 tree-related fires caused a fatality compared to 1 in 75 non-confined home structure fires. Take some basic precautions to ensure that your family stays out of danger during the holidays.
Buying a Tree
If you choose to purchase an artificial tree, make sure that it is labeled or certified as "fire retardant," which means that the tree should resist burning and extinguish quickly if it does catch fire. If you choose to purchase a live tree, make sure it is green with fresh needles that do not fall off when the tree is tapped. Also, needles should not break when they are bent between the fingers. Avoid trees with trunks and branches that seem to have a green shade to them, as the trees may have been sprayed green to look fresher than they really are.
Preparing a Tree
Before you proceed to decorate your tree, prepare and place it in a safe location. A fresh tree should be cut 1 to 2 inches from the base of the trunk before it is placed in the stand. It should also be watered (placing water to the tree stand daily) so that it stays as fresh as possible. Both live and artificial trees should be stable in their stands, screwed in tightly with the bolts or screws. Re-position the tree if it seems wobbly. Also, both live and artificial trees should be placed away from any heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, lights, TV sets and heat vents. Always keep trees away from potential emergency exits.
Decorating a Tree
Use lights that are tested as safe for in-home use, as some lights are supposed to be for the outdoors only. Any strings of lights you use should not be worn, frayed or broken with loose bulb connections. Also be wary of the amount of lights you put on your tree. The NFPA recommends that no more than three strands of mini-string sets or 50 screw-in bulbs should be used on any one tree. Moreover, cords and lights should be kept away from close contact with tree ornaments, tree needles, and the tree's water supply, Note that lit candles should never be used to decorate a tree.
Placing Gifts Under a Tree
To be on the safe side, never place paper-bagged or paper-wrapped presents near the electrical connections under a tree. Also remove all gift-opening residue (boxes, wrapping paper, wrappers) from the tree and fireplace areas as soon as gifts have been opened.
Disposing of a Tree
A tree should be recycled as soon as its needles have begun to drop. Never leave a dried tree in the home or garage, or even outside against the home. Also, never burn Christmas trees or their parts in a fireplace or stove. Local community recycling programs can take care of the tree for you, so ask where to place your tree when it is ready to retire.
