There's nothing like the smell of a real Christmas tree. As beautiful as they can be, they can also be extremely dangerous.

Fire Department Demonstrates Proper Holiday Fire Safety Tips
(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
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It only takes as little as 10 seconds for a Christmas tree to become completely engulfed in flames.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

Firefighters say Christmas lights can spark a fire on a dry tree. Be careful how many light strands you connect for fire safety.

Also, make sure you keep plenty of water in the tree stand to stop the tree from drying out.

The website christmastreeassociation.org has some important fire safety tips for your Christmas tree -

    • When your tree begins to drop its needles, it’s time to say goodbye to your evergreen foliage until next year.
    • Keep all your holiday candles away from your Christmas tree, surrounding furniture, and décor.
    • Bedtime means lights off! ­ Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
    • Always place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights, and keep the tree base filled with water to avoid a dry out.
christmas tree
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How Many Christmas Tree Fires Occur Each Year?

According to the National Fire Research Laboratory, firefighters respond to an average of 200 Christmas tree fires every year in the U.S.

Sure, there are millions of Christmas trees set up in homes across the country, but honestly, 200 Christmas tree fires seem like a lot to me.

It's certainly 200 more than anyone needs.

How Many People Die Each Year From Christmas Tree Fires?

candsins.com reports that "one out of every 52 reported home fires that started with a Christmas tree resulted in a death."

What Causes Christmas Trees To Catch On Fire?

At least half of all Christmas tree fires are caused because a tree or other decorations are placed too close to a heat source, like a fireplace, radiators, candles, and more.

25 percent of yearly Christmas tree fires are caused by various electrical problems according to candsins.com.

 

 

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