Christmas Tree Safety
Written: Oct 20 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Keep your family safe and you will have a very happy holiday.
Cons: nothing
The Bottom Line: Have a safe and happy holiday.
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| Debbie26's Full Review: Christmas Tree |
With the holiday season fast approaching many people will be putting up their Christmas trees in the next two months. There are a few ways to make sure that your tree is safe so that you and your family will have a much happier holiday.
First of all, cut trees are most likely to catch fire. Even though live planted trees and artificial trees can also pose a fire risk they aren't as dangerous as those that have been cut. Cut trees are more likely to become dry causing a fire hazard. However, if you feel you just can't have Christmas without picking out a freshly cut tree with it's wonderful scent there are a few things you can do to make it safer.
SELECTION & SET UP
Cut Trees: When purchasing a cut tree keep in mind that it should not be in the house for a long period of time. It is best to buy the tree no more than two weeks before Christmas and to have it removed about a week after Christmas. Buying the tree earlier or keeping it longer increases the risk of having a dried out tree that could catch fire. Make sure to choose a tree that has been freshly cut. You can check to see if the tree is fresh by striking the stump against a firm surface. The tree is dry if the needles fall off. Once you have selected a cut tree and you are ready to set it up you should cut 1/2 to 1 inch from the bottom allowing it to better absorb water. Fill the stand with water that is hot, not boiling but not cold either. Remember to make sure that the stand stays full of water. Keep in mind that the tree could absorb as much as a gallon of water the first day. Check the water level in the stand often to make sure that your tree doesn't dry out.
Live Trees: When purchasing a live tree you should keep in mind that after the holidays it will need to be planted so you should pick on that will fit in with your yard's size. Make sure that you are buying a healthy tree that isn't dry. Be sure to look for dry spots on the tree or any damage to the tree. Keep the tree well watered and remove any dry branches immediately. Remember to never burn tree branches in your fireplace because they can explode, this is true for Cut trees as well.
Artificial Trees: These trees may seem like a sure bet. You may think that you don't really need to pay much attention to an artificial tree but the truth is there are still some things that you need to be aware of. You should always make sure that the artificial tree you are purchasing has not been recalled. You should also make sure that it is sturdy and.
ALL Trees: When placing your tree in your home there are some things that should be paid close attention to no matter what type of tree it is you have purchased. Your tree should be secured in a way that keeps it from falling or being knocked over. You may think that if you don't have any children this isn't a concern. That isn't the case. A pet or a careless guest could also knock your tree over causing a fire hazard and damaged ornaments, as well as possible injury. To secure your tree you can use wire or nylon cord. You attach the wire or nylon cord to a hook in that is screwed into your wall or ceiling. You can also choose a tree stand that is designed to keep the tree upright and helps prevent it from falling over.
All trees should also be closely monitored and placed in a position that minimizes the possibility of it becoming a fire hazard. Place the tree in an area away from all heat sources. This includes fireplaces, furnaces, radiators, and lighted candles as well as large appliances and electronic equipment such as televisions and refrigerators. Always keep cut trees and live trees well watered! You can treat trees with a fire marshal approved flame retardant but be sure that it is non-toxic, especially if animals and children are in the house. Make sure that there is a working smoke detector installed near the Christmas tree. Remove discarded wrapping paper immediately.
DECORATIONS
Before decorating check and replace any worn or damaged light sets. You should always replace any set that is over five years old even if all the lights are working. Check to make sure that your lights are U.L. or F.M. approved. Using miniature lights produce less heat. DO NOT use spot lights, flood lights, or candles for decoration on your tree. Even unlit candles could catch fire if one of the strings of lights gets too hot. Make sure you disconnect the lights whenever they will be unattended.
To keep your children and ornaments safe you should place glass ornaments near the top of the tree. Put ornaments made of wood, cloth, or plastic near the bottom in case your child gets a hold of one. Then you won't have to worry about broken ornaments or cut fingers.
Always remember if you are unsure of an artificial tree or ornament you can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission for recalls. The web site is http://www.cpsc.gov
Bottom LineThe safety of your home and family is well worth the few extra minutes that it takes to make sure your Christmas tree and decorations are safe. Have a Happy Holiday!
Recommended:
Yes
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Debbie26
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Location: Louisville, KY
Reviews written: 517
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35 year old mother of four boys (17yr old and 12yr old triplets).
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