OSEA Safety Blog

The Family Christmas Tree

Thursday, December 1, 2016 Michele Pratt

The Family Christmas Tree.

So beautiful to behold yet many injuries occur as a result of carelessness related to the gathering and care of your tree. The first thing to consider if you are going to be cutting the tree down yourself is maintaining your safety in relation to the area you are going to be traveling in. Will you be on unstable terrain in the woods, will it be dark out, will you be required to drag your tree for a lengthy distance?

The National Fire Protection Association provides some great tips for your best tree experience:
Selecting your Tree: Pick a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when you touch the branches.

Setting your Tree up with Safety in Mind:
Cut 2” off of the base of the trunk of the tree prior to placing it in the stand.
Maintain a 3-foot distance from any heat source around your tree such as fireplaces, lights, heat vents, candles and radiators.
Do not allow your tree to block an exit.
Water your tree daily.

Proper Tree Lighting:
Ensure that the lights you choose are properly marked for indoor use and they have been evaluated through an independent testing laboratory.
Replace any broken bulbs or connections on your strand of lights. Make sure you follow manufacturer’s instructions for proper light usage.
Do not ever use lit candles to decorate your tree.
Always turn your tree lights out before going to bed or leaving your home.

Proper disposal of your Tree:
After you have enjoyed your tree to its full potential get rid of it. Trees that are dried out and left in the home, garage or outside the home are a fire danger. Your local community should have a program to recycle your tree.
Follow these handy tips and enjoy your beautiful tree safely. There is nothing better during the season than a room lit only by the lights on the tree.

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