by Terry Loving

Created on: December 12, 2008   Last Updated: December 18, 2008

Christmas is a favorite holiday of many American families. It is a time filled with happiness, family, and the joy of giving gifts from the heart. In many households, choosing a Christmas tree is not only the highlight of the holiday, but for many it is a family tradition. Artificial trees can be decorated quite beautifully, but there is something about the scent of fresh pine that wins the choice of many. Some of the popular species of fresh Christmas trees include, Balsam Fir, Scotch Pine, Fraser Fir, Noble Fir, Virginia and White Pine.

With all of the excitement of picking out the family Christmas tree and decorations, one very important item is often overlooked - water. When most people set their fresh tree in its stand, they forget to "cut at least a one-half inch slice from the base of the trunk so it can begin drawing up water." Without daily watering, your beautiful Christmas tree becomes a neglected tree, and a fire magnet. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, "a wet tree is a safe tree."

Did you know that it only takes "three seconds of ignition" for a "dry Scotch pine" to become "completely ablaze?" In as little as "five seconds-the fire extends up the tree and black smoke with searing gases streaks across the ceiling." If your Christmas tree is near "fresh air," the air will cause the fire to spread rapidly. "Within 40 seconds flashover' occurs," and the entire area will be engulfed in flames. The smoke is dense and very toxic due to the lack of oxygen. The U.S. Fire Administration also states that, "Christmas trees account for 200 fires annually, resulting in 6 deaths, 25 injuries and more than $6 million in property damage."

The following tips are very important to keep your family safe this holiday season:

* Water-water-water your Christmas tree DAILY!

* Check all electrical lights and extension cords for frayed wires; replace worn out cords and bulbs.

* Keep your Christmas tree away from open flames such as lighters, candles, and matches.

* Before you purchase your Christmas tree, make sure the needles aren't dry. Bend the needles on the tree between your fingers. If the tree is well watered, the needles won't break. You can also shake or tap the tree gently on the ground to make sure that the needles don't shed.

* Until you are ready to decorate your Christmas tree, leave it outside and away from strong wind and the sun.

* Make sure the tree is secure and it won't tip over.

* Purchase a Christmas tree stand that is made of metal or very hard plastic. The base should be wide also.

* Tinsel should be placed higher out of reach of kids and pets.

* If the needles on your tree begin to fall off in large quantities, it is time to throw it out.

* Keep your Christmas tree away from electrical outlets, space heaters, your fireplace. NEVER burn a tree in a fireplace.

Do your research on the best type of fresh tree to buy. Here is a link for suggestions:
http://interiordecorating.suite101.com/a rticle.cfm/types_of_fresh_christmas_trees

To watch a video, which illustrates how a dry Christmas tree reacts to fire, please go to:
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/hom e_fire_prev/holiday-seasonal/treefire.shtm. This video was produced by the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Enjoy your holiday, and be safe!

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