RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – It’s a great feeling to bring home a real Christmas tree – but keeping it fresh (and safe) takes care.
At the tree farm, examine the Norway spruce or Douglas fir before purchase.
“I would look elsewhere if needles are falling off (signifying a too-dry fire hazard). Buy the special container for fresh trees and keep your tree watered daily,” said Flowers by Nancy Owner Tina Lane.
It can drink a gallon of water in the first few days.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, a dry tree can quickly go up in flames — causing a flashover in under 63 seconds.
“And it’s important to keep your tree away from a direct heat source (fireplaces, radiators, vents). If you have baseboard paints, I would probably try to choose a different location,” Lane said.
She says to consider LED lights for decorating the tree.
“They don’t get as hot as the older lights,” said Lane. “Choose the clear to keep your tree fresh longer.”
