Are artificial Christmas trees that much safer than regular trees?
In terms of fire safety during the holiday season, we have come a long way since the days of hanging and lighting candles in Christmas trees. However, fire departments in the United States still respond to an average of two hundred Christmas tree fires every year. The highest proportion of these result from the electrical failures. If you are worried about Christmas tree fires, you might have wondered: Are artificial Christmas trees that much safer? Read on to learn more!
Artificial Trees Can Catch Fire
Having an artificial tree comes with a couple of benefits. You do not need to buy a new one every year, you do not have to water it daily either. They drop fewer needles in your house, too. However, they do have downsides. For one, they do not smell as nice, nor are they resistant to catching fire. It is true that artificial Christmas trees are not as likely to burst into flames as a dry but real Christmas trees. They will not burn as intensely if they do somehow catch fire. Still, do not assume that your tree is safe just because it is artificial. Most artificial trees come coated with some type of flame-resistant substance. After-market fire retardants are available. If you keep your tree longer than 2 or 3 years you should consider a reapplication. Even so, keep in mind your tree is not completely flame-proof. You should still follow best practices like turning off and unplugging lights when nobody is around.
What About a Real Christmas Tree?
Real Christmas trees are beautiful and aromatic. As long as your tree is well-watered and alive, it is not likely to catch fire. If you are buying pre-cut trees, there are tips to ensure that it has not dried out:
- Ensure the needles do not fall off too easily
- Check for sap around the trunk
- Make sure limbs, and twigs are not snapping or breaking
- Lightly tap it on the ground, and make sure it retains its needles
Once you have picked a tree that passes these tests as soon as you get home cut a bit from the bottom of the trunk. This will help it soak up water. Once set up, make sure it always has water. The last thing you want is for it to dry out and become a fire hazard. Of course, never use real candles on the tree, inspect your lights for damage and always unplug the lights when you leave your house or go to bed.
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.