Bismarck Fire Encourages Christmas Tree Safety

BISMARCK, N.D. – Trimming the tree is a traditional holiday pastime; however, Christmas trees pose a serious danger to households if not properly cared for. Please follow these tips when selecting and caring for your Christmas tree this holiday season:

• When purchasing live, cut trees or greens, carefully inspect the needles. If they’re brown or break easily, the greenery isn’t fresh and poses a greater fire risk. Test for freshness by bending a few needles in half. If they snap in two, the tree is dry – look for one on which the needles spring back to their original shape. When you take your tree home, put it in a sturdy, non-tip stand filled with water.

• Keep live trees supplied with water at all times; dehydrated Christmas trees can catch fire more easily.

• Keep live trees supplied with water at all times; dehydrated Christmas trees can catch fire more easily.

• Never decorate trees with candles.

• Inspect electrical lights and extension cords for wear and tear and replace any cords that are beginning to fray or have
broken sockets; pay special attention to outdoor lights that have been exposed to winter weather conditions. To reduce fire hazards and extend the life of outdoor decorative lights, bring them inside after the holidays.

• Avoid cluttering outlets – string no more than three strands of lights together and make sure all lights bear the mark of an independent organization such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). If you need more outlet space, use an approve power strip that will provide protection from electrical overload.

• Unplug all lights – inside and out — before going to bed or leaving home.

• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are flammable and should not be left inside the home or garage, or placed against the house.

• Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Don’t forget to install, test and maintain these devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Develop and practice a fire escape plan for your household so overnight guests are familiar with your procedures.

By taking these simple precautions, your holiday season will be a safe and joyous one. Visit www.bismarck.org for more information or call (701)355-1400.