Christmas Tree Safety



If you decide to purchase an artificial tree, only buy one with a label that reads, "fire resistant." Although any artificial tree can catch on fire, a "fire resistant" tree will not catch fire easily, and will extinguish quickly.

If your choice of a Christmas tree is a fresh, live tree, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind as a real tree can be a fire hazard:

  • Take care in the selection of your tree and look for:
    • Fresh trees that are a healthy color
    • Tree trunks that are sticky with sap
    • Needles that are healthy, not dry or falling off in abundance
  • When ready to decorate, cut off about two inches of the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand.
  • Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources.
  • Never place lighted candles on a tree or place the tree near any flammable materials.
  • Only use indoor lights on your indoor tree. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged light sets.
  • Don’t use more than three light sets on any one extension cord. Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid a tripping hazard. Do not run cords under rugs.
  • Check the tree daily for water. Keep the stand filled with water.
  • Turn off the tree lights before going to bed and whenever you leave the house.
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