Idaho Falls: 'Tis the Season for Safety: Holiday Tree Tips from IFFD

IDAHO FALLS ~ As the holiday season approaches, the Idaho Falls Fire Department (IFFD) is reminding residents to prioritize safety in their festive traditions. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), holiday tree fires are a common occurrence, causing an average of 240 home incidents each year in the United States. These fires can result in injuries, deaths, and millions of dollars in property damage.

To avoid becoming a statistic, the IFFD advises individuals to carefully select their Christmas trees. When choosing a fresh-cut tree, look for green and flexible needles that do not break easily when pulled and do not shed excessively when bounced on the ground. The trunk should also feel sticky, indicating freshness. For pre-cut trees, it is important to ask when it was harvested as fresher trees are less likely to dry out.

For those opting for artificial trees, it is crucial to ensure they are labeled as fire-resistant and never attempt to modify any factory-installed electrical components.

Proper placement and setup of the tree are also essential for fire safety. The IFFD recommends keeping trees at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles, and heat vents. It is also important to place the tree on a sturdy stand on a non-flammable surface and keep it clear of exits, stairs, and high-traffic areas.

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Watering and maintenance are crucial for keeping a tree fresh and less prone to catching fire. The IFFD advises watering your tree daily using a stand with a water reservoir as many trees can consume up to a gallon of water per day. Before placing the tree in the stand, trim 1 to 2 inches off the trunk base to improve water absorption but never drill holes in the trunk.

When it comes to lighting and decorations on the tree, safety precautions should also be taken. Only use lights that are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Inspect lights for any frayed wires, cracked insulation, or broken bulbs and replace damaged sets immediately. Avoid overloading circuits by connecting no more than three strands of lights per extension cord and plugging lights directly into wall outlets whenever possible. Keep decorations at least 12 inches away from the tree to avoid contact with lights or branches. And always remember to turn off tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

The IFFD urges all members of the community to follow these safety guidelines to ensure a safe and joyful holiday season. For more information on holiday fire safety, individuals can download the NFPA Tree Safety Tip Sheet or visit the USFA webpage for Holiday Fire Safety. Let's make safety a priority this holiday season and prevent any unnecessary accidents or tragedies.

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