Holiday Safety

Christmas Tree Safety

Consider an artificial tree (they are much safer and cleaner). A real tree should not
lose green needles when you tap it on the ground. Cut 1 inch off the trunk to help
absorb water. Leave the tree outside until ready to decorate. The stand should hold
at least 1 gal. of water. A 6' tree will use 1 gallon of water every two days. Mix a
commercial preservative with the water. Check the water level every day. Secure the
tree with wire to keep it from tipping. Keep tree away from floor heaters, fire places,
or other heat sources. Use only UL-approved lights, and no more than 3 strands
linked together. Use miniature lights--which have cool-burning bulbs. Turn off the
Christmas lights when you sleep, or if you leave your home for very long. Never use
candles, even on artificial trees. Clean the tree stand to improve the tree's water
intake, use one capful of bleach to a cup of water. Dispose of the tree properly.

Home Safety

Install a smoke detector or new batteries in the one(s) you have and TEST it. Use
only outdoor lights outside your home. Examine light strings each year, discard worn
ones. Fasten the bulbs securely and point the sockets down to avoid moisture build
up. Connect no more than three strands together. Never use indoor extension cords
outside. Avoid overloading wall outlets and extension cords. Keep outdoor electrical
connectors above ground and out of puddles and snow.

Unplug light string before replacing a bulb. Review the original package to verify
proper wattage and voltage. When connecting light strands, wrap a plastic bag
around connections and tie ends with teflon tape. Never use electric lights on a
metallic tree, use colored spot lights. Make sure trees hung with X-mas lights are not
touching power lines. When using candles, place them a safe distance from
combustibles. Place candles in sturdy containers. Remember, hot wax burns kids.
Extinguish candles prior to going to bed. Dispose of fireplace ashes into a metal
container until cold. After parties, check around and under sofa and chair cushions
for smoldering cigarettes. (Provide lots of ash trays) Install at least one carbon
monoxide detector in your home. Have an operable fire extinguisher readily
available.