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IDHS > About IDHS > Get Prepared > Winter Weather Precautions > Holiday Safety > Christmas Tree Safety Christmas Tree Safety

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  • Christmas Tree Safety Fact Sheet
  • Christmas Trees
  • Christmas Trees 2

    • Picking the Tree

    • If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
    • Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that don't fall off when touched.

    Placing the Tree

    • Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1-2” from the base of the trunk.
    • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source. One in five Christmas tree fires are caused by a heating source that’s too close.
    • Make sure the tree does not block an exit.
    • Add water to the tree stand daily.

    Lighting the Tree

    • Make sure the lights are for the proper indoor/outdoor use.
    • Replace any string of lights that have worn or broken cords and broken bulbs.
    • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree. 
    • Always turn off Christmas tree lights when leaving home or going to bed.

    After Christmas

    • Dispose of the tree when needles start dropping, dried out trees are a fire hazard.
    • Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards.

     

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