Practice Good Christmas Tree Safety in Seattle
The holidays are a fun time of year where you get to bring a bit of the outdoors inside to help make the house festive. Live Christmas trees are a tradition for many families. Whether it is because they love the smell, prefer the authenticity or simply enjoy the process of picking the perfect tree every year, a real tree is a treat for many families. However, a real tree has some special considerations that must be addressed and the team at Greenwood Hardware can help you with that.
Keep it Wet
A dry Christmas tree isn’t only unsightly; it is a major fire hazard! Make sure you fill the bowl under the tree on a daily basis or at least check it daily. Your tree may drink one to two gallons a day in the first week or so. You don’t need to add anything to the water; just fresh water is all that is needed. Giving the bottom a fresh cut before you add it to the tree stand is ideal. A sharp saw is all that is needed to cut the bottom half inch or so.
Avoid Heat
While a tree next to the fireplace makes a pretty picture, it isn’t a good idea. Do what you can to position your tree away from your fireplace, wood stove or the heater vent. You don’t want to dry it out any quicker.
Lighting
Ideally, LED lights are the best. They produce less heat than the standard lights and pose less of a fire risk. They are also much cheaper to run than the other lights. Only have the lights on when you are home and keep a close watch on the tree. Never leave the lights on overnight.
Extension Cords
If you need to use an extension cord, make sure you place it out of the way of foot traffic. You don’t want it being walked on and run the risk of it breaking down and becoming a fire hazard. Don’t overload your extension cord. Use a couple of cords and run them to different outlets to keep from overloading a circuit.
Your holidays are meant to be a time of joy. Make sure you are keeping your home and family safe by following these safety tips. You can find the tools you need, like a saw and extension cords, at Greenwood Hardware. Come on in, or contact us today. You may just find some gifts for the family while you are there!