21 Christmas Tree Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life! – Charleston, SC

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA):

• Christmas Day sees over twice as many open-flame fires compared to any other day of the year.
• Holiday fire losses result in three times more property damage than an average fire.
  • Although Christmas tree fires are rare, they are far more likely to be deadly when they occur.

To help you prevent fires and ensure a safe and happy holiday, follow these safety tips:

Caring for Natural Christmas Trees

1. Choose a Fresh Tree:
   • Select a tree with green needles that do not fall off when pulled. A fresher tree contains more natural moisture and is less flammable.
2. Prepare the Tree for Display:
   • Cut 2 inches off the trunk’s base before placing it in a stand to help it absorb water.
3. Water Regularly:
   • Keep your tree hydrated by adding 1 gallon of water daily for a 6-foot tree.
4. Prevent Mold and Mildew:
   • Hose down live trees, boughs, and wreaths before bringing them indoors to remove existing mold.

Choosing an Artificial Tree

• Opt for a flame-resistant artificial tree to reduce the risk of fire. If a fire does occur, it will burn more slowly, giving you more time to act.

Tree Placement Tips

• Keep the tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, space heaters, and candles.
• Ensure the tree doesn’t block exits to maintain clear escape routes in case of an emergency.

Decorating Safely

1. Flame-Resistant Decorations:
   • Choose ornaments and materials that are flame-retardant.
2. Avoid Lit Candles:
   • Never use candles to decorate your tree and keep them away from flammable surroundings.
3. Child-Safe Decorations:
   • Use non-sharp, unbreakable decorations and keep small, candy-like ornaments out of reach.
4. Bubble Lights:
   • Keep bubble lights away from children to prevent accidents involving glass or toxic chemicals.
5. Use Proper Equipment:
   • Use a sturdy step stool or ladder when decorating higher branches.

Electrical Safety for Christmas Lights

1. Certified Lights:
   • Use lights certified by qualified laboratories like UL.
2. Inspect Lights:
   • Check for frayed wires, loose connections, cracked sockets, and damaged bulbs. Discard faulty lights.
3. Avoid Overloading:
   • Plug no more than three light sets into one extension cord to prevent overheating.
4. Proper Power Source:
   • Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) for indoor lights. For outdoor lights, use UL-rated extension cords designed for outdoor use.
5. Metallic Trees:
   • Never use electric lights on metallic trees to avoid the risk of electrocution.
6. Turn Off Lights:
   • Switch off your Christmas tree lights when leaving home or going to bed.

Disposing of Your Tree

• Even well-water trees dry out after a month. Remove your tree immediately after the holidays to reduce fire risks.
• Avoid leaving dried-out trees indoors, in your garage, or near your home.
• Recycle natural trees through local community programs.

While these precautions will help keep your holidays safe, accidents can still happen. If disaster strikes, Call PuroClean Disaster Restoration of Charleston at 843-972-4200. Our team will quickly restore your fire-or smoke-damaged property to its pre-loss condition.

Stay safe, and have a joyful holiday season!

If you’re in Charleston during the holidays, don’t miss the magical Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park! This beloved local tradition features millions of dazzling lights, holiday-themed displays, and festive activities for the whole family. It’s the perfect way to make your season even brighter while enjoying Charleston’s charm.