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Christmas Tree Safety Christmas Tree Fire Facts 1 in every 3 home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur they are more likely to be serious A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly 1 in every 6 of the fires Christmas Tree Safety Tips… Select a tree with fresh green needles that do not fall off when touched Cut 2” from the base of the tree before placing into the stand with water Place tree away from sources of heat Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit Inspect lights for frayed wire or other defects before use Use lights that have the label of an independ- ent testing laboratory , such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Never use lit candles to decorate the tree Do not leave lights on unattended Be sure to add water daily Discard the tree when it becomes dry—do not leave it in your home or garage Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to pre- vent hazards * Source: NFPA, Quincy, MA —www.nfpa.org/education Be sure to… Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas & inside bedrooms Test all smoke alarms in your house once a month Replace smoke alarm bat- teries at least annually Replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old Develop & practice a home fire escape plan Department of Fire & Emergency Services 26 Broad Street • Albany, NY 12202 • (518) 447-7879 www.facebook.com/FDAlbanyny www.twitter.com/FD_AlbanyNY