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Step 1
Preventing a Christmas tree fire first begins with choosing your tree. Always examine the needles. The tree's needles should be green and the trunk should be sticky to the touch. Shake the tree and if the needles are falling off, pick a different one. Make sure you keep your tree moist at all times and give it plenty of water each day.
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Step 2
Make sure your tree stand is sturdy and won't tip your tree over. Never place your Christmas tree too close to a fireplace or heat vent. Doing so will cause the tree to dry out making it easier to become ignited by flames or sparks. If you choose to buy an artificial Christmas tree, make sure the label states that it is flame retardant. Never block an exit with your Christmas tree.
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Step 3
Examine your Christmas tree lights for loose bulb connections, broken sockets, and frayed or damaged cords. Use only lights that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory. Damaged light cords can also easily cause a Christmas tree fire.
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Step 4
Never use real candles to decorate your Christmas tree and always keep candles away from all decorations and wrapping paper. Never place candles in a window where blinds and curtains can touch them and always keep matches and lighters out of reach from children.
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Step 5
Never leave a real Christmas tree up for longer than two weeks. Safely dispose of your Christmas tree by taking it to a recycling center or other method of pick-up service. Avoid a Christmas tree fire by never keeping a dried out tree in your home or garage. Never burn Christmas tree branches and needles in your fireplace. The flames can very quickly become out of control.
