by Robert Schneider

Created on: December 13, 2009   Last Updated: December 14, 2009

Christmas time is suppose to be one of celebration and get together with family and friends. But too often it ends up in tragedy, when the proper safety precautions are not taken. Most of these precautions are simple common sense issues, that we all too often forget.

The first precaution that comes to mind is to make sure that the tree is watered if it is a real tree. Do not assume that someone else checked that it had enough water. Take the 5 or 10 seconds it takes to check it yourself. A dry tree not only makes a mess from the falling pine needles, it is also 90% more likely to catch fire.

Another safety measure is to use Christmas lights that do not heat up, even if left on for a long period of time. They may cost a bit more , but will be worth it in the long run. Do not ever use real candles on any tree wether a live tree or artificial tree.

It is a good idea to invest in a timer that you can set to go and off at a preset time so that unplugging the lights won't get put off or forgotten.

Between 2003 and 2007 there were 250 fires that were caused by Christmas tree fires. These fires caused 18 fatalities. There are fire retardants that can be sprayed on the trees to help bring down the number of fires that happen each year.

Another problem that is often over looked during the holidays is that after a person has a fire in a fire place, they scoop up the ashes and put them in a garbage can and then put them outside. Here is the problem, they don't think about what they put the ashes in, most times a plastic garbage can.  Also they put the can too close to the house and sometimes after a length of time the side of the house heats up and catches fire. Here is my advice about using fireplaces. If you use the fireplace wait till the ashes are completely cold before removing them. If you have to remove the ashes right away, then use a metal trash can and and a metal shovel, put it away from the side of the house so it doesn't cause a problem.

Take the necessary precautions and it can be a safe and enjoyable holiday season for everyone.

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