Christmas Tips: Tree Decorating Safety
Christmas Tips You’ll Want to Know
Today is December 2nd, which means as of yesterday it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year! Families across the country have begun putting up their Christmas trees, decorating their homes with dazzling lights, and baking the day away. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be focusing on decorating safety – for your beloved tree, as well as for the interior and exterior of your home. Our goal is to ensure that you have a safe and happy holiday!
When it comes to decorating your tree, it’s important to follow certain guidelines so that you can help prevent electrical and fire hazards.
Christmas Tree Tips (from ESFI)
- When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree will stay green longer and be less of a fire hazard than a dry tree.
- Cut 1-2 inches from the base of the trunk immediately before placing the tree in the stand and filling with water to ensure water absorption.
- Because heated rooms dry out live trees rapidly, be sure to keep the stand filled with water by refilling daily.
- When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” This label indicates that the tree is more resistant to burning.
- Place your tree at least 3 feet away from all heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters.
- When trimming a tree, only use non-combustible or flame-resistant materials.
Christmas Tree Lighting Tips
- When purchasing lights, always purchase ones that are UL certified (Underwriters Laboratories).
- Before putting any lights up on your tree, inspect each strand to ensure that there aren’t any broken or exposed bulbs or wiring. If you have any doubt, the best and safest thing to do is replace.
- If you have to replace a bulb in a string of lights, make sure to buy the correct wattage.
- Always unplug your lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
Hickerson Electrical is your source for all home electrical services. We’re ready and willing to deliver top-quality service to your home at a moment’s notice. So call today at (703) 594-3913.
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