There are more house fires throughout the United States during holiday time than throughout the year, thanks to poor planning when it comes to Christmas trees.

According to the National Institute for Standards and Technology’s Building and Fire Research Laboratory, Christmas trees can be as dangerous as they are beautiful/ “They make turpentine out of pine trees,” said USFA spokesman Tom Olshanski. “A Christmas tree is almost explosive when it goes.”

To keep the holidays merry and bright — but not too bright! — follow these safety tips from the USFA.

1. Buy Fresh Trees and Keep Them Watered: This cannot be emphasized enough. People know that the Christmas tree needs to be kept well-watered, but in the hustle and bustle of celebrations, they forget. A dry tree can ignite a room in seconds. A well-watered tree, on the other hand, Olshanski said, is “almost impossible to ignite.”
2. Choose Flame Retardant Everything: This includes artificial trees, decorations when possible, clothing, etc.
3. Location Matters: Where you position the tree in your home can make a huge difference in whether or not it will be a fire hazard. Put the tree in a place that is several feet away from heating sources including the fireplace. Try to put it in an area where people don’t have to walk.
4. Light Safety: If it’s broken, frayed or cracked — toss it. Buying new is cheaper than losing everything you own to a house fire.

At the end of the day…no matter how safe you are during the holidays when it comes to your tree, all good things must end. The tree will dry out, even if you have been diligently watering it. Take it down and properly dispose of it soon after the holidays are over. There’s no reason to invite trouble.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident during the holidays caused by someone else’s negligence, contact the LaDuca Law Firm right away for a free consultation about your accident and injuries.