Half of all reported Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical malfunctions and trees displayed too close to heat sources.
Christmas tree fires are preventable. If they occur, however, they can cause serious personal injuries and severe property damage. Half of all reported Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical malfunctions and trees displayed too close to heat sources. Make sure you’re careful with the tree, where it is displayed and the condition of your lights and decorations. Make sure to tell all of your family and friends to be cautious as well. Do not let a fire ruin your holiday season. Read on for Christmas tree fire safety tips to help prevent fires and injuries in your home or business!
Select a Fresh Christmas Tree
If you prefer a real Christmas tree, then pick a tree with green, fresh needles that do not fall off while touched. Cut approximately two inches from the base of the trunk before you place it in your stand. This will allow your tree to absorb water much better.
Water Your Tree Every Day
This will ensure that your tree stays hydrated and prevents it from getting too dry. Dry trees are potentially combustible and dangerous. Add plenty of water to your tree stand every day. Be generous. A six-foot tree can consume a gallon of water a day.
Artificial Trees and Lights
Make sure your artificial tree is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire-resistant. Underwriters Laboratory (U.L.) is a trusted listing. Never use an artificial tree that is not properly listed. The same applies for lights. Only use U.L. listed lights. Inspect them frequently for damage, kinks, frayed or missing wire insulation or broken light sockets.
Place Your Tree Away from Heat Sources
Keep your Christmas tree far away (at least three feet) from any heat source. This includes radiators, lights, candles, or fireplaces.
Keep Your Tree Away from Exits
Make sure your Christmas tree is not blocking footpaths or exits, so it will not get knocked over. Also, make sure the tree isn’t blocking any fire exits. This is a one-way ticket to disaster if a fire does somehow start.
Never Use Burning Candles
Do not ever use burning candles on your Christmas tree. We talked about candle safety in our last blog, and it cannot be stressed enough this time of year. Instead, opt for battery-operated, flameless LED candles.
Make Sure Your Smoke Detectors are Working
For increased fire safety this time of year, check all of your smoke detectors. Test them as soon as you put the tree up. Change the batteries, if necessary. Fireline can provide guidance on this, as well.
Fire Protection Services from Fireline
Whether you need smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, or an automatic sprinkler system installed at your commercial property, Fireline has you covered. We have been protecting people and property from fire damage since 1947—and our experience shows in our excellent work! We are known for our superb customer service, our expertise, and our reliability. For more information on how we can help your residential or commercial property, visit us online or give us a call at (800) 553-3405. We are in Baltimore, MD, with a second office in Leesburg, VA. For more fire safety tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.