Hang a Smoke Detector in Your Christmas Tree
Felix Giannini FPE, CPP
![Felix Giannini FPE, CPP]()
Felix Giannini FPE, CPP
Manage Risk: Integrated Security, Fire Alarm, and Safety Engineering / CPTED / Compliance / Bid Specifications / Strategic Response Plans / Project Management / Risk Assessment & Business Continuity
Watch this: NFPA Christmas tree fire video.
Christmas tree fires are incredibly fast spreading. A fire resulting from a dry tree is the most dangerous, with average burn times under one minute, resulting in extreme high temperatures and rapid fire spread throughout the home. More than 200 fires per year in the United States result from Christmas trees as reported by the NFPA.
What you can do to minimize the risk:
- Hang a battery powered smoke detector inside your tree near the top
- Use a fire resistant artificial tree or use only fresh cut live trees
- Keep live trees watered this makes a big difference in flammability
- Use extreme caution when installing and using Listed (e.g. UL) electric lights
- Don’t leave you tree up past Christmas week
- Do not use candles or heaters near your tree
- Have an NFPA recommended proper home fire alarm system
- Have several fire extinguishers handy and teach your family members where they are and how to use them.
- Turn your Christmas tree lights off before leaving home or going to bed.
- Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit door.
Please visit the NFPA web site for Christmas tree home safety tips and information, and share this post with the ones you love.
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season,
Felix
White Wolf Cafe Orlando
9 年I can't believe this happens this fast!
Learning & Development Training Facilitator ?? Training Program Author ?? Talent Development Consultant ?? Certified Pro Résumé Writer
9 年Good post and great tips. Nothing like an engulfed Christmas tree to get your attention.
You could borrow the old message and bring it up to date and say that a "smoke detector is for life and not just for Christmas". Why not just install a smoke alarm in the room where the tree is and leave the detector there for the rest of the year?
Senior Fire Investigator
9 年Well said.
Technical Professional Leader - Fire Protection at KBR
9 年Do not place gifts containing Lithium Ion batteries underneath it either....