The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department wishes you and your family a safe and happy Christmas holiday. Below is a list of fire prevention and safety tips for a natural cut Christmas tree:
• Place the tree in a location that does not block an exit.
• The water level in the tree stand should be at least two (2) inches above the butt of the tree and should not get below the butt of the tree. If the water level becomes lower than the butt of the tree, it should be removed immediately or another one (1) inch diagonal cut made.
• Complete a daily dryness test. Grasp a branch and with reasonably firm pressure pull you hand toward you, allowing the branch to slip through your grasp. If the needles fall off readily, the trees does not have adequate moisture content and should be removed immediately.
• Candles and open flames should NEVER be used on or near the Christmas tree. Maintain a distance equal to the height of the tree away from candles, open flames, and heating equipment.
• Turn out the tree lights when leaving the home or going to bed.
• Review you family escape plan and check your smoke detectors.
A dry natural cut Christmas tree takes only seconds turn into a “towering inferno” that will spread high heat and smoke through out the home.
For more Holiday Safety Tips visit our website at www.cityofkearney.org and click on “Fire” and then “Safety”.