Christmas Tree Safety Tips

It is very important at this time of year that you practice Christmas tree safety. If you are one of the millions of American families that celebrate Christmas with a live tree, the absolute most important thing to remember is to water that tree! Electrical lights and open flame from nearby candles, lighters and/or matches will light up a dry, neglected tree in no time. Christmas trees account for approximately 200 home fires every year as well as deaths and injuries.

1. Make sure to check the water reservoir regularly and keep the water level high. This not only creates a wonderful fragrance, but keeps your tree well hydrated and less likely to go up in flames.
2. Never leave an open flame near the tree. If you are burning candles, make sure to place them several feet away from anything flammable and never leave a burning candle unattended.
3. Electric Christmas lights can get hot enough to catch a dry tree on fire. If you are leaving the house, do not leave the Christmas tree lights on. Make sure they are completely unplugged.
4. Do not overuse your electrical outlets. Use a surge protector to plug your Christmas tree lights into. This protects your lights from experiencing any surge in electricity as well as creates less of a burden on the electrical outlet.

Follow these Christmas tree safety tips to keep your family safe this Christmas season. Happy holidays!