How to prevent Christmas tree fires

As Christmas trees are put up in homes across the Susquehanna Valley, the risk of fire increases.

“They (Christmas tree fires) burn hot. They burn quickly,” said Chief Scott Little of Manheim Township Fire Rescue.

When it comes to preventing Christmas tree fires, safety starts on the sales floor. Buy a tree that is well watered and has bright green needles.

Next, it’s time to decorate. Check your lights before placing them on the tree.

“Make sure you use good products. You should also discard any frayed lights. If the wires are pinched, make sure you dispose of them,” Little said.

Your attention to the tree doesn’t end with hanging the last ornament.

“Make sure the tree is watered every day. The trees can dry out very quickly and that can cause a fire,” Little said.

Other fire safety tips from the US Fire Administration include:

• Never leave tree lights unattended.
• Keep the tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, or vents.
• Make sure your tree doesn’t block any exits.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns. Make sure you have a sturdy holder and place them in a place where they cannot be easily knocked over.

Once Santa has come and gone, you can ring in the New Year without the risk of fire by disposing of your tree sooner rather than later.

“We also recommend that you throw away the Christmas tree on December 30th. Or, if it has already dried out, get rid of it immediately. To remain fire safe, we ask that you take every precaution possible,” Little said.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments across the country responded to an average of 155 home fires that started with Christmas trees each year between 2018 and 2022.

According to the NFPA, 41% of home Christmas tree fires involve electrical distribution or lighting equipment.