As Christmas trees make their appearances in homes throughout the area, caution is urged to assure they do not become a fire hazard.
“Christmas trees dry out fast, they can become as flammable as our trees on the hillsides can become if we don’t keep them watered as soon as you bring that tree into the house.”
That’s Teton County Fire Marshal Kathy Clay who says the tree should be watered every day, like you would do a plant and keep the tree stand full, in order to keep that fuel moisture up high. She also urges that the tree be located away from things that are hot and can promote drying.
“Those baseboard heaters are hot enough to start paper and Christmas trees on fire, you want to be clear of the baseboard heaters and that space heater that may be plugged in as well.”
The National Fire Protection Association points out that between 2015-2019, US fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees each year. These fires caused an average of two deaths, 12 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually.
