Christmas Tree Safety Tips from Harford County Government

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Harford County Executive Barry Glassman in his office with a Christmas tree featuring handmade sheep ornaments.
Harford County Executive Barry Glassman in his office with a Christmas tree featuring handmade sheep ornaments.

 

Christmas trees are a delightful holiday tradition.  Yet Christmas tree fires can be serious and even deadly.

 

“Caring properly for live trees is essential to protecting your home and your family,” said Edward Hopkins, director of the Harford County Department of Emergency Services. The department offers the following fire prevention tips for this holiday season:

 

  • Choose a fresh tree with green needles.

 

  • Make sure your tree is properly stabilized.

 

  • Water your tree daily.

 

  • Beware of decorations that pets may tug on or play with, causing your tree to fall.

 

  • Place your tree at least three feet away from floor vents, fireplaces, radiators, candles, lamps and other heat sources.

 

  • Use indoor lights that are approved by a national testing organization such as UL.

 

  • Replace lights that have worn or broken cords or loose connections.

 

  • Do not overload your electrical outlets.

 

  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands you can safely connect.

 

  • Always turn off or unplug lights before going to bed or leaving your home.

 

  • Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially inside and outside sleeping areas.

 

  • Practice your family’s fire escape plan.

 

“A live Christmas tree is one of the joys of the holiday season,” said Harford County Executive Barry Glassman. “I urge everyone to follow these tips for a safe and Merry Christmas.”

 

For the location and business hours of Christmas tree farms in Harford County, please go to:  http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/1741/Christmas-Tree-Farms or look for the following icon on the Harford County government website www.harfordcountymd.gov.

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