Safely Trimmed Trees Help With Fire Safety

Nova Scotia's fire marshal wishes Nova Scotians a happy holiday season by reminding families to safely trim and maintain Christmas trees.

"A well-maintained tree itself is not generally a fire hazard, but it can add fuel to a fire started by faulty electrical lights, candles or heating devices that are placed too close to it," said fire marshal Robert Cormier.

Mr. Cormier is urging all Nova Scotians to follow these steps to keep their trees safe:

• When choosing a natural tree, make sure it is freshly cut. The needles of pine and spruce should bend and not break and should be difficult to pull off branches. On a fresh fir tree, a needle pulled from the stem will snap when bent, much like a fresh carrot. Look for a trunk sticky with sap.
• Choose a sturdy tree stand with a wide base that will be difficult to tip over. The base for a natural tree should hold water.
• Cut about five centimetres (two inches) from the base of a natural tree before placing it in the stand.
• Select the location for both natural and artificial trees carefully. Avoid placing near fireplaces, heating vents and other heat-producing appliances.
• Be sure the tree does not block an entrance, even if it falls. Use wire or nylon to secure the tree to the wall or ceiling to prevent it from being knocked over by children or pets.
• Make sure a natural tree is watered every day and the water tank is full. The tree can absorb four or five litres of water on the first day.
• Dispose of a natural tree safely when it starts dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house. Check with your community composting program for the tree pick up schedule.
• The recommended maximum length of time from cutting to disposal of a natural tree is 25 days.

The decorations on both natural and artificial trees also contribute to their safety.

When choosing decorations for your tree, make sure the electrical devices meet safety standards, said Mr. Cormier. Also ensure there are no combustible materials on or near the tree.

He offers these tips:

• Never put a candle on a tree or anywhere near it.
• Use only noncombustible decorations.
• Use only light strings that are approved for use in Canada. Only use electric lights on a metal tree when recommended by the manufacturer.
• Only use indoor lights and extension cords indoors. And only use outdoor lights and extension cords outdoors.
• Check for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections. Replace any damaged light sets.
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits. Instructions should be followed to determine the number of lights strings for each connection.
• Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid the tripping hazard, but do not run cords under rugs.
• Consider using miniature or energy-saving LED lights which produce less heat.
• Disconnect the lights at bedtime or when unattended.

The fire marshal also reminds Nova Scotians that smoke alarms save lives. "A working smoke alarm with a fresh battery will provide additional peace of mind", said Mr. Cormier.

For more information on fire safety, contact the Office of the Fire Marshal at 1-800-559-3473.