Bermuda Fire & Rescue Christmas Safety Tips
The Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service has issued a series of holiday safety tips, including how to choose the most fire resistant Christmas tree and how to dispose of the tree when the season ends.
A spokesperson said, “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. Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
“Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches 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 and add water to the tree stand; be sure to add water daily.
“Use lights that have the label of a recognized 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.
“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.
“One of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical failures. 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 roughly one in every fiveof the fires.
“For more information call Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service at 292-5555.”
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Category: Accidents and fires, All
turn the tree off when you go out,don’t leave it unnattended and for the love of fresh fish put water at base daily.