Poll: Did you know that according to the NFPA, almost one-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems?

Poll question: Did you know that according to the NFPA, almost one-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems?

Poll options:

1. Yes, I knew this
2. I did not know this, thanks
3. I'm not sure
4. Other (leave a comment)

Poll Description:

Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious, and a heat source too close to the tree causes more than one in every five fires.

Below are tips to prevent Christmas tree fires 🔥

𝐏𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐄:

✅ Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐄:

🪵Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.

🕯️Ensure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.

🚪Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

💧 Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐄:

🚫 Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

👊 Use lights listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

💡Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.

👉 Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.

📝 Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.

➡️ Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

𝐀𝐅𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐒:

👍 Please get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry.

🚫 Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage or placed outside against the home.

♻️ Check with your local community to find a recycling program.

🧹 Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

If you have other tips, share them below in the comments, and kindly repost this message to your neighbors on Nextdoor by clicking the "Share" button/arrow below and then "Repost in newsfeed."

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