HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS | Keeping Christmas bright and happy

Christmas trees
k A real tree can add to the spirit of Christmas by filling your home with beauty and the scent of pine. But a real tree can also pose a fire hazard.
k Each year, more than 400 residential fires involve Christmas trees and nearly 40 deaths and 100 injuries result from those fires.
k Try to select a fresh tree by looking for one that is green. The needles of pines and spruces should bend and not break and should be hard to pull off the branches. On fir species, a needle pulled from a fresh tree will snap when bent, much like a fresh carrot.
k Look for a trunk sticky with sap. Cut about 2 inches off the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand. Keep the stand filled with water so the tree does not dry out quickly.
k Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources.
k Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.
k If you use an artificial tree, choose one that was tested and labeled as being fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.
k Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet from any heat source and try to position it near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances.
k Do not place the tree where it may block exits.
k If you buy your tree early and keep it outside, store it away from wind and sun and keep the bottom in a bucket of water.
k 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.
k If your tree seems wobbly, center it in the stand more securely and redo the bolts or screws. Of if your tree stand is cheap, buy a larger, stronger one.
Tree lights
k Use indoor lights indoors (and outdoor lights outdoors).
k Look for the UL label.
k Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged light sets.
k Use no more than three light sets on any one extension cord.
k Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use tree lights.
k Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid tripping hazards, but do not run cords under rugs.
k Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.
k Never use electric lights on a metal tree.
Tree ornaments
k Children are fascinated with Christmas trees. Keep a watchful eye on them when around the tree and do not let them play with the wiring or lights.
k Store matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
k Always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places.
k Read labels before you use materials that come in jars, cans and spray cans.
k Never place lighted candles on a tree or near any flammable materials.
k Avoid placing breakable tree ornaments or ones with small, detachable parts on lower branches where small children or pets can reach them.
k Do not hang popcorn chains and candy canes on the tree when small children are present. They may think that other tree ornaments are also edible.