Christmas Tree Saftey Tips

Christmas is almost here! Every year, my family goes through the same debate, real or artificial when it comes to our Christmas tree.

A real tree wins out every year. There's nothing like the smell of a real, live Christmas tree. More than 17 million real Christmas trees are harvested in the U.S. every year. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association to  keep your Christmas Tree safe this year.

• Cut 1" - 2" from the base of the trunk before placing your tree in its stand.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source which includes fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Be sure to add water daily.
• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
•  Never use lit candles to decorate the tree
• .Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire hazzard. Don't leave your tree in your home, garage, or outside against your house .