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Nourish Your Christmas Tree, Folks!
Let’s talk about keeping your Christmas tree safe this holiday season. Recently, Fatherly released a video that might spook you into checking that your tree is well-watered. While it might be a bit dramatic, it emphasizes a crucial point: safety first with your festive greenery!
Now, Christmas tree fires aren’t super common, so don’t let this add more stress to your already busy holiday season. However, when they do occur, the outcomes can be severe. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “on average, one of every 34 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death,” compared to just one in 142 for all home fires. Yikes!
A well-watered tree is definitely less flammable than a dried-out one. Just take a look at the video from the NFPA: a live burn test conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that a parched tree can go up in flames in under a minute, while a hydrated tree burns at a much more leisurely pace. So, let’s keep those needles green and fresh!
Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association to ensure your tree is as safe as possible:
- Select a tree with fresh, green needles that stay put when you give them a gentle poke.
- Before putting the tree in its stand, chop off about 2 inches from the bottom of the trunk.
- Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, heaters, or candles.
- Ensure your tree isn’t blocking any exits.
- Fill the tree stand with water and remember to top it off daily.
- Use lights that have been tested by an independent laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, so double-check!
- Replace any strings of lights with frayed wires or loose bulb connections. It’s always good to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the number of light strands you can connect.
- Never decorate your tree with lit candles.
- Always turn off the lights before leaving home or hitting the hay.
- And when the season ends, don’t forget to recycle your tree! Your community likely has a recycling program in place.
Happy Holidays! For more intriguing tips, check out our other blogs like this one, where you can find helpful info on everything from at-home insemination kits to pregnancy resources.
Summary:
Keeping your Christmas tree safe is essential for a worry-free holiday. By choosing the right tree and following safety precautions, you can enjoy your festive decorations without added stress. Remember to water your tree, check your lights, and dispose of your tree responsibly after the season!