Edhat Staff
(Photo by Pexels)
Source: Santa Barbara County Fire Department
The Santa Barbara County Fire Department wants to wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season. As evacuation orders are lifted for the Thomas Fire, many residents will be returning home to a dry or dead Christmas tree. If your tree is extremely dry with needles falling off, you should remove it from your home and replace it with a fresh tree. If replacing your tree is not an option and you choose to keep it in your home for the holidays, please follow the following safety tips:
- Make sure your tree is kept away from heat sources like fireplaces or heater vents. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks.
- Make sure no exits are blocked by the tree.
- Check your lights before placing them on your tree. Look for worn or frayed wires and broken bulbs.
- When you leave your home or go to sleep at night, turn off the lights on the tree.
- Dispose of your tree properly. Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community curbside pick-up service.
- Check your smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly.
The Santa Barbara County Fire Department wants you to remember that fires don’t take a holiday. By taking some precautions, you and your family can celebrate a fire-safe holiday.
