Mid City Times

The Fort Worth Fire Department is urging residents to take safety precautions during holiday festivities to ensure a joyful and hazard-free celebration for all. With the tradition of decorating homes with Christmas trees and lights, the department emphasizes the potential fire risks associated with these decorations.

One of the key guidelines provided by the FWFD is to select a live tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. It is important to check the freshness of the tree before purchasing it to minimize the risk of fire.

Before placing the tree in its stand, it is recommended to cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk. This allows for better water absorption and helps keep the tree hydrated throughout the holiday season.

When it comes to lighting the tree, the FWFD advises using lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. This ensures that the lights meet safety standards and reduce the risk of electrical fires.

After the Christmas celebrations are over, it is crucial to get rid of a live tree promptly. Dried-out trees pose a significant fire danger and should not be left in the home, garage, or placed outside against the house. In Fort Worth, residents can place live trees curbside for the normal weekly yard waste pickup or take them to designated drop-off stations. It is important to remove all lights, decorations, and tree stands before disposing of the tree.

To prevent hazards and prolong the lifespan of outdoor electrical lights, the FWFD recommends bringing them inside after the holidays. This simple measure can help prevent accidents and ensure the lights last longer.

The City of Fort Worth emphasizes the importance of fire safety awareness during the holiday season. By following these guidelines, residents can create a festive and secure environment for all.

In order to spread awareness about fire safety, the City of Fort Worth has released a statement urging residents to take precautions. According to the Fort Worth Fire Department, "When selecting your live tree, choose a tree with fresh, green needles that don’t fall off when touched." These guidelines are crucial as the holiday season brings the tradition of decorating homes with Christmas trees and lights, which can pose fire risks if not handled properly.

The department also advises cutting 2 inches from the base of the tree trunk before placing it in its stand, using lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory, and getting rid of live trees promptly after Christmas or when they become dry. It is important to remove all lights, decorations, and tree stands before disposing of the tree and to bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays.

By following these safety measures, residents can ensure a joyful and hazard-free celebration. The City of Fort Worth emphasizes the importance of fire safety awareness during the holiday season to create a festive and secure environment for all.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/news/2023/12/hoiday-fire-safety