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It's important to be fire smart this holiday season. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly.
The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) reports that one of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.
A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every four of the fires.
The Norwalk Fire Department is providing these safety tips for Christmas trees:
Picking the tree:
- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk.
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. Add water to the tree stand.
- Be sure to add water daily.
Lighting the tree
- Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
- Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
- Never use lighting candles to decorate the tree.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Please watch a Christmas tree fire safety video by clicking here.
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