Photo Credit: William Hook
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… until the Christmas tree goes up in smoke! Okay, okay, most people make it through the holiday season without any Christmas tree disasters, but it’s important to keep in mind some decorating safety tips, because accidents do happen—and more often than you’d think.
Christmas Tree Fire Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, fire departments respond to an average of 210 fires caused by Christmas trees every year. Here are some guidelines to keep your tree from becoming one of them:
- Choose a fresh tree with green needles that don’t fall off when touched.
- Ensure that artificial trees are labeled as fire resistant.
- Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source, such as radiators, heat vents, lights, or candles.
- NEVER use lit candles as part of your decorating.
- Light the tree with no more than three string sets.
- Turn off any lights before going to bed.
Christmas Tree Pet Safety
Holiday trees, with their small ornaments and dangling tinsel, can also present real risks for curious dogs and cats. That’s why you should:
- Place larger, less tempting ornaments near the base of the tree. Avoid food-based decorations altogether.
- Use pet-proof electrical cords for your lights.
- Keep your pet from chewing any branches, fallen needles, or leaves. Often, Christmas trees are coated with fire retardants, insecticides, or fertilizer – all harmful if ingested.
- Ensure that your tree is on a stable stand. With a dog running around, it might need to take a knock or two without toppling.
Christmas Tree Ladder Safety
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that falling down on the job causes the bulk of holiday decorating injuries. If your tree is on the bigger side and you’ll need an extra step up to hang your ornaments, practice ladder safety by:
- Having a helper hold the bottom of the ladder.
- Keeping ladders away from doors that might open.
- Never leaning too far to one side while working.
- Staying off the ladder’s top step.
- Never allowing the ladder to touch a live electrical wire.
Squeeky Clean Wishes You Happy Holidays!
By practicing the safety tips above, you and your family can enjoy your Christmas tree without any mishaps! Be sure to check out our other recent post on popular remodeling trends for the new year, which is also coming up.
And remember, if you’re ever in need of power washing, gutter cleaning, construction, or restoration on the Main Line, we’re the number to call!
