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Your Favorite Holiday Decoration Could be Deadly

Dried Out Christmas Trees Are a Fire Hazard
December 29, 2020 (Anchorage, AK) – With the echoes of the Christmas festivities quieting down to a return to usual life, extra precaution should be taken with the evergreen that helped make the holiday merry and bright. Dried-out Christmas trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home, garage, nor placed outside against the home. All Christmas trees can burn, but a dried-out tree can become engulfed in flames in a matter of seconds. The longer you leave one in your home, the more of a fire hazard it becomes.  In recent years, according to the National Fire Protection Association, there have been tragic incidents where Christmas tree fires have resulted in deadly consequences for multiple family members, including young children. It is important to properly dispose of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry.
 
  • Nearly 29% of Christmas tree fires occur in January.
  • Almost one-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
  • Although Christmas tree fires are not common when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.
  • A heat source too close to the tree causes more than one in every five of the fires.
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Christmas tree disposal tips:
  • Cover your tree when removing it from the home to prevent needles and resin from getting on the floor.
  • If available, place the tree at the curb, where it is not blocking sidewalks or driveways, for curbside pickup.
  • Cut up the tree and use it for firewood for small and carefully planned campfires.
  • Mulch the tree and use it for landscaping projects.
  • Use the branches for a base in a compost pile, chip, and compost the remaining tree for a great natural fertilizer.
Check with your local jurisdiction for woodlots and tree recycling programs. 

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