Skip to content

Thursday November 21, 2024 Salt Lake City, UT

TOP STORY

Protecting Utah

Christmas Tree Safety

Thursday November 30, 2017

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. Here are some tips from the Utah Fire Marshal’s Office to keep you and your family safe this holiday season.

  • PICKING THE TREE
    • Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
  • PLACING THE TREE
    • Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.
    • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
    • Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
    • Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
  • LIGHTING THE TREE
    • Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
    • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
    • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
    • Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
  • AFTER CHRISTMAS
    • Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.
    • Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

For more information, click here.

SHARE THIS STORY

More Videos in this Series

Motorcyclist Killed on I-80

June 20, 2020

Fatal Crash: San Juan County on SR-191 at Milepost 78

May 11, 2020

Utah’s New Lane Filtering Law

May 8, 2019

More from the News Room

Test

August 2024

Our News Has Moved

July 2024

I-80 Fatal Motorcycle Crash (Updated 6/25/24)

June 2024