Real Christmas trees make the house smell great throughout the holidays and can really bring that extra bit of holiday charm. Unfortunately, Christmas trees can pose risks, especially when they become overly dry. The potential danger arises when a parched Christmas tree is exposed to hot lights, fireplaces, or other heat sources, creating a hazardous situation for anyone in the home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas trees have the alarming ability to transform into a blazing inferno, surpassing the speed of combustion even compared to newspaper. Ensuring a safe and joyful Christmas morning around a live tree requires a keen awareness of preventive measures to avert such risks.
How Quickly Dry Trees Turn Into a Blaze
A video published by the National Fire Protection Association has gone viral, showing just how dangerous unwatered Christmas trees can be.
What starts as a small flame at the bottom of the tree engulfs the entire tree in just five seconds. As the flame climbs, it reaches the ceiling in very little time. In just 30 seconds, the entire room has turned into an inferno. This is how so many tree fires are started every year, and it can be devastating for families during what is meant to be a happy time.
Preventing Christmas Tree Fires
Of course, the most logical way to prevent a Christmas tree fire is to simply water it. Hydrated trees are much less likely to catch fire.
Live trees need to be watered every day, and according to research from the Shriners, 70% of people with live trees know this. Unfortunately, still only 45% of people take the time to water their tree daily, increasing the risk of a fire.
In addition to watering it once the tree has been brought home, it is also important to purchase a tree that is hydrated properly. The only way to ensure a tree is not dry at the time of purchase is to make sure it has been freshly cut. Trees that were cut weeks ago and have been wrapped and stored have been losing water that entire time. It will be much more difficult to water these trees enough to hydrate them so they do not pose a danger.
Other ways to prevent Christmas tree fires include:
- Inspecting strings of lights to ensure there are no loose connections or frayed cords
- Using just one extension cord that can easily reach an outlet without becoming tangled
- Turning the lights on the tree out every night and before leaving the house
- Never placing candles near a tree
- Setting the tree up at least three feet away from any heat source
Following these tips can help prevent a Christmas tree fire, and ensure that everyone has happy holidays around their beautiful tree.
Getting the Help You Need From a Long Island Accident Lawyer
Accidents are going to happen, even during the holiday season. While some of these can not be prevented, others may be due to someone else’s negligence. In the case of Christmas tree fires, a manufacturer may be responsible for not ensuring their lights were safe to use on live Christmas trees. A seller may also be responsible for selling a tree that is far too dry to be used as decoration.
If you or a loved one is injured this holiday season due to someone else’s carelessness or recklessness, contact the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP. We have decades of experience in personal injury law, and we are the Long Island accident attorneys that can help you with your case. Call us today to schedule your free consultation so we can start reviewing your case.
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