Be wise and be sure to Water!
An important reminder from DeBerry Insurance Agency to keep live trees properly watered this Christmas!
A live Christmas tree can be one of the most festive aspects of the season. However, it is important to remember to keep live trees properly watered. Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.
According to Spring Hill’s Fire Chief, Terry Hood, the best way to prevent Christmas tree fires is to keep live trees properly watered. Live trees should be watered daily. It is also important to check all cords and wires for any damage before using tree lights.
“I recently showed a video to our Spring Hill chamber that demonstrated how quickly a live tree can catch fire,” Hood said. “The video showed that within two minutes of the Christmas tree catching fire, the whole room was involved. It is a very serious situation.”
The National Fire Prevention Association (www.nfpa.org) also offers several safety tips for enjoying a live tree during the holiday season. They advise placing trees at least three feet away from any heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights. Also, Christmas tree lights should always be turned off before leaving home or going to bed.
After Christmas, it is equally important to take care to remove the tree from your home and premises. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage or placed outside against the home.
The City of Spring Hill offers pick-up for brush and yard-debris, including live Christmas trees. Pick-ups can be scheduled by calling city hall (931) 486-2252. There are many local groups that offer Christmas tree recycling. More information about tree recycling and holiday recycling is available on the website www.williamsonrecycles.org.
In addition to removing your Christmas tree, you should also bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.
The holidays are a wonderful time of the year. Here at DeBerry Insurance Agency, we hope these important reminders can help everyone have a safe and happy holiday season!
