Tis the Season

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas tree with fireplace behind

Tis the Season

It’s that time of year again. The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, but I sure hope that your Christmas tree isn’t over there. Did you know that one in four Christmas fires are caused by electrical problems, and another one in four is caused by a heat source too close to the tree? The National Fire Protection Association states that although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. With that in mind let’s take a moment to review some tips regarding your tree to make sure that your holidays stay merry and bright.

Picking the tree

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” 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 lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed

Some of these items may seem like common sense but a little bit of complacency mixed with the right amount of Grandpa’s eggnog and Santa might just show up to your house already looking like a lump of coal. So, this Holiday Season don’t be a Grinch. If you need help cleaning up after a fire, SERVPRO will be there in a cinch.