My Merry Christmas

By Paul Peterson

More than 400 fires occur each Christmas season due to Christmas trees that have become dangerous. Therefore, it is imperative to practice safety measures to ensure that your holiday season will be one filled with joy and laughter, and not one marked by tragedy. Here are some tips that will help you make the best decisions, when purchasing and decorating Christmas trees, and that will help ensure your safety.

When choosing a fresh Christmas tree it is important to make sure that the tree is as healthy as possible. If the tree is already dropping needles, there is a greater risk of fire. Check the needles to see if they bend or break off before making your purchase. The needles should bend and give some resistance when you try to break them off. Also, see if the trunk has sap. This is a good indication of how long ago the tree had been cut.

It is important to keep your tree in water to prevent it from drying out quickly. Keep the levels of the water high and don’t let the water evaporate. You should place your Christmas tree in an area that is free from high traffic or heat. This includes fireplaces, radiators, or wood burning stoves. Keep your tree moist and make sure that it isn’t in a location where it can be easily knocked over or placed as a potential fire hazard.

To prevent problems with your Christmas tree lights, make sure that you only use lights designed for inside use on your tree. Always double check the light strands before stringing your tree to ensure that none of the lights are broken, chipped, or otherwise damaged. Also, check the wires to make sure that they are in perfect order, and not frayed or ragged. Never use more than three strands of lights for each extension cord. Always make sure that extension cords are neat and organized so that they do not pose a threat to those walking. Remember never to place electrical cords or wires under rugs as they can cause a fire to start. It is also important to make sure that all lights are turned off when leaving the home or retiring for the evening- this includes outdoor lights as well.

Remember that you should use care and caution when hanging Christmas tree ornaments. Whether you are using a ladder to place the star upon the tree, or wish to prevent small children from reaching low hanging ornaments, you should decorate your tree with the mindset of putting safety first. If young children will be around the tree, then you may find it more beneficial (and less worrisome) to display glass or fragile ornaments on a display stand situated on a high shelf, rather than on the tree. By taking the time to ensure that your Christmas tree is safe and secure, you can prevent many accidents as well as tragedies from occurring.

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