If you’re putting up a real Christmas tree this year, don’t forget to water it — daily.
Kamloops Fire Rescue (KFR) is spreading that friendly reminder through a video on social media. The 1:30-minute clip shows how fast a fire can engulf a tree if it’s too dry. It takes seconds.
Lyle Weninger, a life safety educator with KFR, says while Christmas tree fires are not that common, it’s “one of those potential things that if you don’t water your trees, it can happen.”
“Always check your light strands to make sure there are no broken wires or any frayed pieces,” he tells KamloopsMatters.
Other tips include:
- If you’re getting your tree from the forest, cut 1 to 2 inches from the base of the trunk.
- Keep your tree about three feet away from any heat source. That includes air ducts because they can dry the tree out.
- Make sure your tree isn’t blocking an exit.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before you leave home or go to bed.
- Make sure tree lights are CSA or ULC approved.
- Ensure smoke alarms are in working order and test them once a month.
Happy tree decorating, Kamloops!
