Christmas Safety Tips

With the Thanksgiving hangover worn off, people everywhere are getting into the Christmas spirit by decorating their homes, humming Christmas carols, and shopping for the perfect gift for their loved ones. Whether you are planning to use a real tree or a fake tree to stack your presents under, below are some helpful safety tips to ensure your holiday is safe and jubilant.

-When choosing a Christmas tree, be sure that any fake tree is certified as flame retardant. Real trees should be fresh. Dry needles on a real tree are a fire hazard so be sure that the needles are not brittle.

-Make sure you place your Christmas tree at least three feet away from any heat source such as heaters, fireplaces, candles, or lamps. If using a real tree, be sure that you water the tree daily to keep the tree from drying out.

-When lighting the tree, be sure that the light cords are not worn or frayed and the bulb fasteners are in good condition with no loose connections. If lighting the outside of your home, be sure that the lights you choose are meant for outdoor use.

-Never use lit candles to decorate the tree. Trees and fire do not get along.

-Always turn off your Christmas tree lights when leaving the house or going to bed for the night.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, US firefighters responded to an average of 230 Christmas tree fires between 2007 and 2011. The result was an average of 6 deaths, 22 injuries, and $18.3 million in property damage per year. The cost of being careless with your Christmas tree is staggering. By following the tips listed above, you can help to ensure that your holiday festivities are safe and merry!

For more information and statistics regarding Christmas tree fires and additional safety tips, visit www.nfpa.org. Do you have any other helpful holiday safety tips you would like to share? If so please leave them in the comments section below.