Oh Christmas Tree!

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly!

Did you know: Almost one third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems?

Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.

A heat source too close to the tree causes more than one of every five of the fires.

Picking the tree: Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that don’t fall off when touched.

Placing the tree: Before placing the tree in the stand, remove 2 inches from the base of the trunk and make sure the tree is three feet away from any heat source. Add water to the tree stand daily.

Lighting the tree: Use lights for their designated purpose – indoor or outdoor. Replace any lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Never use lit candles to decorate a tree and always turn off Christmas tree lights before going out or going to bed.

After Christmas: Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it gets dry. Dried out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home, the garage or placed outside against the home.

On behalf of all of us at Redwood Meadows Emergency Services, we wish you happy and safe holidays with family and friends!