Christmas Tree Sales Escalate

Firefighters emphasize safety

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By Heather Hintze
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Story Created: Dec 10, 2011 at 10:12 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Dec 10, 2011 at 10:12 AM AKDT

Christmas tree vendors are expecting to see sales pick up this weekend.

And it is firefighters who are reminding families to take extra precautions if they choose a real tree – real trees become major fire hazards if they dry out. Presents underneath are like kindling, so if your tree does catch fire, the whole thing will be up in flames in a matter of seconds.

The demonstration in the video shows a tree on the right that’s been regularly watered, while the tree on the left has been neglected. Firefighters say it happens all too often throughout the holidays.

At Bell’s Nursery, staff makes sure to keep their firs hydrated and mist them four times a day. The owner says once you take a tree off their lot, be sure to keep your tree stand filled up.

Firefighters say keeping your loved ones safe this holiday season is simple. To avoid fires, keep your tree watered, and make sure your lights are in good shape. Firefighters recommend turning off the lights on your tree when you’re not home or when you go to bed. Also make sure to keep candles away from your tree, and don’t put it up near a fireplace.

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