Safety Tips
from
The Farrell Fire
Dept.
Before you select a tree, perform the FRESHNESS TEST. Gently grab a branch of the tree, about six
inches from the trunk of the tree, and pull outward on the branch. When your hand reaches the end of
the branch, open it and check for needles. A fresh tree will have only a few needles or none in your
hand. If there are several needles, look for a different tree.
When you get your tree home, shake off as many dead needles before taking it in the house as you
can. This can be done by picking up the tree and dropping it (on the tree stump) a few times.
Select the locatin for your Christmas tree carefully, keeping it away from fireplaces, heating vents, and
other heat-producing appliances that may dry out the tree.
Saw at least an inch off of the trunk bottom.
Mount the tree in a stand that holds water. Keep the water level above the cut. This will keep the tree
fresh and green while reducing the risk of fire.
Use tree lights that bear the Underwriters' Laboratory (U.L.) label, and check the strings for signs of
wear and tear. Do not use lights that are frayed or operate with missing or broken bulbs.
Exercise care with extension cords. Use no more than three sets of lights per extension cord. Do not
place the cords under rugs or in paths of travel.
Check your smoke detectors. If battery powered, the batteries should be changed twice each year. The
Fire Department suggests that you change the batteries when you adjust clocks for Day Light Savings.
Do not attempt to burn branches from the tree it in your fireplace. Dry trees throw off a tremendous
amount of heat and and can create a dangerous fire. After taking down the tree, leave it at the curbside
for recycling.
CANDLES:
We respond on numerous calls concerning candles, especially when children are off from school.
Make sure they are in a safe place. When using candles, make sure that they are at least a few feet
away from any objects that can burn, such as drapes or curtains. Candles should only be used when
someone is present. Never leave them burning if you leave home or go to sleep.
DO NOT BURN YOUR CHRISTMAS WRAPPING OR BOXES in your fireplace. They cause a film in
the chimney that can damage it, and when they burn, the fire may cause excessive heat which can
damage your chimney and cause a fire in the wall.
REMEMBER, Smoke Detectors make great gifts, as do fire extinguishers, escape ladders, carbon
monoxide detectors and flashlights.
