Christmas Tree Safety continued:

After you purchase the tree, cut off one inch from the stem to allow for better absorption of water.  Once this cut has been made, the stem must remain in water at all times.  Once inside a building, your tree should be placed in a cool area, away from any source of heat.  Be certain that you always have enough water in the stand, so a stand should hold a gallon or more of water. When you place the tree inside the building, you must make sure that it does not block an escape route.  As soon as you notice the signs that the tree is not retaining the moisture, it is time to remove the tree from the building as properly disposed of. Never store the tree in a garage or on a porch while you are waiting to discard the tree, rather store it as far away from any structure and ignition sources as possible.  Studies have revealed that ordinary tap water is the best liquids to keep the tree in, that other water or water additives offer no benefit in terms of reduced ignition or flammability.   

An independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratory should approve all holiday lighting.  No electrical or other energy source should be utilized when the tree is unattended.  Timers can be used to control lights, however be sure that you turn off the power if you are leaving the building or area where the tree or decoration is located.  Do not use outdoor lights on a tree that is indoors, as the tree will be more susceptible to excessive drying.  Only use lights and extension cords that are labeled as safe for outdoor use. Use one long extension cord instead of linking several shorter ones together.   

When placing holiday lights and other decorations, always keep metal ladders away from overhead power lines.  Be careful not to overload an electrical outlet.  Overloading an outlet can cause overheating and lead to a fire.  Make sure outdoor electrical outlets have shock protecting Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).  When purchasing electrical extension cords, look for the mark of an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL).  Remember that even though the product has a testing label on it, it can still be a hazard if it is not used properly.  How and where the product is used can have a serious effect.   

Candles or other open flames should not be used near a Christmas tree, decorations, or wrapping paper.

 


Christmas Tree Preservation Formula


Below are the directions for making your own Christmas Tree Preservation mix: Feeding your tree with this mixture will help prevent the needles from dropping, retain its moisture and reduce any fire hazard.

2 Cups of Karol syrup
2 Ounces of chlorine bleach
2 Pinches of Epsom Salt
1/2 Teaspoon of Borax (sodium borate)

Fill a 2 gallon bucket with hot water
Add the above ingredients and mix thoroughly.
Make a fresh cut at the base of the Christmas Tree one inch above the original cut.
Keep the tree stand full of this mixture.

 
 

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day!  If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 or stop into either fire station any Monday night.  The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. Visit the Fort Washington Fire Company on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.