Avoiding Christmas Tree Fires -Gainesville, VA

Christmas is only a few weeks away, and while 2022 will be a memorable holiday season, some traditions will continue. Traditions such as putting up and decorating a Christmas tree are popular among many people. Christmas trees can bring quick holiday cheer, but they can also be a fire hazard.

What is the underlying cause of these Christmas tree fires? Electrical distribution or lighting equipment, as well as some form of heat source (such as a candle) that is too close to the tree, are the main culprits. Consider the following suggestions to lessen the likelihood of a Christmas tree fire in your home.

Replace artificial trees to maintain fire retardant

Real trees are more harmful in the event of a fire, but artificial trees are also at risk. Even flame-resistant fake trees, depending on their age, might pose a fire hazard because the flame retardant can wear out over time. Did you know that the average useful lifespan of an artificial Christmas tree is six years? Examine your tree's longevity and adhere to the instructions.

When purchasing a new artificial tree, ensure that it contains a flame-retardant chemical.

Don’t leave lights plugged in

Most people keep their Christmas trees in their living rooms. When everyone goes to bed, guess what's left unattended and connected to the wall? Your Christmas tree's lights! You should switch off the kitchen light before going tonight, just as you would with the tree. Even an artificial tree might catch fire as a result of the tree lights.

Christmas lights can get quite hot and, in some situations, ignite flames. Even simple LED lights have the potential to overheat.

Avoid using extension cords

Extension cords should not be utilized for prolonged periods of time. Using an extension cord to light your Christmas tree is not a good idea. Excessive use of extension cables can overheat them, increasing the risk of a fire. Overloading extension cables or outlets is another concern to be mindful of. A power strip is superior to using one or more extension cords. Power strips are designed to power several items, such as light strings or holiday decorations.

Using a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected circuit and examining all wires on your Christmas tree lights and any power strips for physical signs of wear and tear are also smart recommendations.

Inspect pre-lit artificial trees each year

Because of exposed wiring, too short wiring, or cords that aren't entirely hooked in, pre-lit artificial trees might cause electrical shock and fire concerns. These trees are difficult to beat in terms of convenience. Pre-lit trees are convenient for "set it and forget it" illumination, but they can also represent a serious fire risk. Like any other electrical cord, the cords and circuitry wear down with time. The problem is that the wires are hidden in the tree and hence cannot be seen. Every year, take a flashlight to your tree and scrutinize every inch of cable that you see. Any physical damage indicates that the tree should be removed.

Check water levels daily for real trees

Real trees are a severe fire hazard. They are not flame resistant and will catch fire in seconds. One of the most common causes of genuine tree fires is a dried-out tree. Check the water level daily and add one quart of water for every inch of stem diameter.

Keep in mind that buying your tree too soon will increase the risk of a fire because it must be kept alive and well for a longer period of time, thereby increasing the risk of a fire in your home.

If your home has been damaged by a fire, whether or not it was related to the holidays, allow Anthony Restoration to help you restore your fire-damaged house.