Christmas Tree Safety

The winter holiday season should be a joyous time of year. However, certain types of fires and injuries are associated with holiday decorating. In 2000-2004, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 300 home structure fires that began with Christmas trees. These fires caused an average of 14 civilian deaths, 21 civilian injuries, and $16.8 million in direct property damage each year.

When decorating Christmas trees, always use safe tree lights. (Some lights are designed only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.) Larger tree lights should also have some type of reflector rather than a bare bulb and all lights should be listed by a testing laboratory.
Never use electric lights on a metal tree.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use tree lights. Any string of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections should not be used.
Check your strands of lights to determine the number of strands that may be connected. Connect no more than three strands of push-in bulbs and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and extend their life.
Never use lit candles to decorate a tree, and place them well away from tree branches.
Try to keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles.
When purchasing a live or cut tree, check for fresh, green needles.
Choose a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over.
When purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.
Children are fascinated with Christmas trees. Keep a watchful eye on them when around the tree and do not let them play with the wiring or lights.
Store matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
Make sure the tree is at least three feet (one meter) away from any heat source, such as fireplaces and radiators. Try to position the tree near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place the tree where it may block exits.
Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house.