Christmas Tree Safety

8476539_lChristmas tree accidents can turn the holiday season into a tragedy. Real trees pose greater safety risks than artificial trees, but contrary to popular belief, a fake tree can still pose a fire hazard, and both can pose other safety hazards. We recommend following the necessary safety precautions and choosing the type of tree that makes you and your family happiest.

Choosing your Tree for Safety

  • When choosing a real tree, make sure it is fresh and well hydrated. Avoid trees with brown needles or brittle limbs. Feel green needles. If they fall off, the tree is too dry.
  • When choosing an artificial tree, make sure it is labelled as fire retardant. B aware that a used tree may have been sprayed with toxic chemicals by its former owner.

Placement and Maintenance

  • Place the tree are least three feet away from heat sources, including candles, fireplaces, and space heaters. This includes both real and artificial trees.
  • Do not place your tree in a high traffic area or where it will block an exit.
  • After placing your tree, make sure it is stable and cannot fall over or be easily knocked over. You may need to secure the tree to the wall and/or ceiling.
  • If you have a real tree, be sure to water it every day. If you have pets or small children, only use pure, clean water. Do not use tree preservatives or fertilizers, not even aspirin, as they can make the water poisonous.

Christmas Lights

  • Only use lights that have been tested by an independent laboratory.
  • Inspect the cords for nicks and frayed wires, even if this is the first use.
  • Use the right lights for the job. Some lights are labelled for indoor use only, and are not safe to use outside.
  • Do not put nails or staples through the cord when securing lights.
  • Always unplug your Christmas lights when you leave the house or go to bed.

Dangerous Decorations

  • If ingested, fake snow can be toxic to children and pets, and intoxicated adults for that matter. It can pose a choking hazard and block the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Decorations made to look like food can be enticing to children, and can be toxic or pose a choking hazard. Decorations made form real food can be toxic to pets.
  • Tinsel, and similar decorations can cause life-threatening gastrointestinal blockages in pets and children, requiring emergency surgery.