Christmas Trees = Fire Trap?

"Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, how lovely are your branches..." - traditional carol

Have you seen the video of a Christmas Tree bursting into flame? http://www.fire.gov/newsletter/summer2001/page_two.htm
According to FEMA, Christmas trees account for 200 fires annually, resulting in 6 deaths, 25 injuries and more than $6 million in property damage.

To prevent your tree from burning down your house, the National Fire Protection Association site gives these safety tips:

• Only use tree lights that are approved by a testing laboratory. Larger tree lights should have a reflector to keep the bare bulb from touching the tree.
• Don't use old lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Don't connect more than three strands of push-in bulbs and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
• Always unplug/turn off 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 make sure any lit candles in the room are placed 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. Check for fresh, green needles.
• 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.
• Keep a watchful eye on children (and cats!) around the tree. Do not let them play with the lights or chew on the wiring.
• Store matches and lighters up high, out of reach, 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.

Bottom Line

Keep a fire extinguisher near the Christmas tree. You might need it!