Make sure the tree is fresh, not dry and losing it's needles.  A tree should not lose green needles when you tap it on the ground.

If buying a pre-cut tree, make a new cut approximately one inch above the old cut to facilitate water movement through the cells.

Leave the tree outside until you are ready to decorate it.

Trees that are cut early are a greater danger than trees cut relatively close to Christmas.

For Christmas trees to be displayed in commercial and office building or stores, the trees must be treated with a Fire Marshal approved flame retardant.

The stand should hold at least one (1) gallon of water.  A 6-foot tree will use approximately one (1) gallon of water every two days.

Be sure to check the water level every day.

Tree Decorating

Before using lights on the tree make sure that they are UL listed. Never use more than three strings of lights on one circuit.

Make sure that all connections are tight and the bulbs and cords are in good condition, not loose or frayed as to cause a short.

Replace older style, light bulb type lights.  These light bulbs produce too much heat and can cause various problems. 

When buying new lights, buy low-heat mini-lights.  These lights are much safer.

Remember: If any of your lights are too hot to handle, you run the risk of someone (especially a child) touching the lights and burning their hands.  

Be able to turn off the lights without having to crawl under the tree.

Artificial trees should be made of flame resistant materials, and lights should never be used on trees with metal frames.

Never leave the lights on when leaving the house or when going to bed.

Keep candles away from Christmas trees. Never use candles as Christmas tree decorations.

When shopping for Christmas tree ornaments, attempt to find ones which are flame resistant.

If purchasing special electrical or battery powered ornaments, such as special smoke detector ornaments, make sure they are approved for home use.

Selecting a Location

When selecting a location to setup your tree, attempt to locate it in a cool location.

Avoid placing it in an area close to heating appliances or the fireplace. This will not only dry the tree out prematurely, but can also increase the chance of accidental ignition.

Keep the tree out of high traffic areas, and away from stairways and doors.

Secure the tree so that it cannot be knocked over by pets or a small child.

When to Remove a Tree

The Fire Department recommends that a tree be removed from the home in the event that it becomes dry and begins shedding needles. DON'T TAKE A CHANCE.

Remove the tree as soon as possible after Christmas. Dispose of all papers and boxes at once, do not allow them to accumulate.

Never burn a tree in a fireplace. Dry Christmas trees burn very hot and extremely quick. The fire may rapidly leave the fireplace and move into your room. Also, a Christmas tree is very oily and may damage your fireplace.