ACTA Answers: Christmas Tree Fire Safety
Mac Harman, CEO and Founder of Balsam Brands, sits down to discuss the best practices for fire safety this holiday season. He urges consumers who will buy a live tree this year to water their tree frequently and dispose of it once it has dried. Live trees will last around four weeks after purchasing, and keeping a dry tree in the home increases the likelihood of a fire. Artificial trees are created to be fire retardant, but it is still crucial to check your outlets, tree light bulbs, and light cords to decrease the chance of a spark being introduced in the home.
Other fire safety tips to include are:
Placing your tree a minimum of 3 feet from heat sources, including lamps, heating vents, radiators, fireplaces, and candles.
Checking your outlets and light cords for any fraying or damages.
Avoiding the use of lit candles to decorate your tree, artificial or live. Do not place lit candles underneath or near your Christmas tree; never leave burning candles unattended.
Turning off Christmas tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.