The holidays are fast approaching, and it’s time to start coordinating your Thanksgiving and Christmas plans. If you like to celebrate by decorating your house with a live Christmas tree, there are a few important things that you should keep in mind to ensure that your home stays safe. While Christmas trees are very festive and fun way to decorate your home, it’s important for you to consider the fire risk that they pose and keep Christmas tree safety in Seattle in mind. Take these necessary steps to minimize danger this holiday season:
- Place your tree carefully: It’s important that you take the time to plan your tree placement. You should steer clear of any power outlets, electrical fixtures, fireplaces or heat sources that could spark a fire if they come into contact with your tree. Even heating vents should be avoided, since the warm air from these vents can dry your tree out and increase the fire risk.
- Turn off lights when you leave: If you’re planning on illuminating your Christmas tree with festive lights, it’s important to be extra careful to prevent fires. You should make sure that your string of lights is in good condition, without any signs of wear or damage that could pose a safety risk. It’s also important to unplug your lights before you go to bed or leave the house to further reduce the risk of fire.
- Select your tree carefully: Christmas trees become far more susceptible to fire as they die and dry out, so you should choose a tree that’s healthy, lush and green. Try to find a tree that looks as healthy as possible, and then continue watering the tree to keep it looking its best during the holidays. Once your tree begins to dry out, shed needles excessively and turn brown, it’s time to get rid of it. Holding on to a tree for too long increases the risk that a fire will spark.
- Avoid open flames: Lots of people like to light candles during the holidays, but you should be cautious about using candles in close proximity to your tree. If you are going to use candles, make sure you place them on an even, solid surface that’s away you’re your tree and any upholstery.
- Keep emergency supplies on hand: One of the most important aspects of Christmas tree safety in Seattle is fire preparedness. If a fire does spark in your Christmas tree, you want to make sure that you can respond as quickly as possible. You should always have a fire extinguisher in close proximity so that you’re prepared to extinguish small flames before they turn into a major house fire.
Learn more about Christmas tree safety in Seattle
You can get some additional fire safety advice and stock up on the supplies you need this holiday season by visiting Stewart Lumber & Hardware Co. For decades, we have been proud to provide our customers with the high-quality products they need to handle all of the projects on their to-do list. Regardless of what your specific needs may be, we are confident that we have the product inventory and expertise necessary to assist you. Find out more by giving us a call today or stopping by to see us in person!