Municipal Affairs and Environment
December 13, 2017
Public Advisory: The 12 Days of Fire Safety � Day 5
Christmas trees represent an exciting part of the holidays for many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, but may also pose a significant fire risk if not properly managed.
Take the following steps to help protect your property and loved ones:
- When choosing a real tree, ensure it is fresh and the needles do not drop when touched;
- Always make a fresh cut about two inches from the base of the trunk before placing the tree in its stand;
- Ensure the tree is placed a safe distance (minimum one metre) from any sources of heat;
- Ensure the tree does not block any possible escape route from your home in the event of a fire; and
- Add water to the tree stand daily to slow the drying out process and reduce the risk of fire.
After the holidays, be sure to dispose of your tree properly:
- Do so as soon as possible, before it dries out;
- Check with your local government for proper disposal procedures; and
- Never store the tree in the home, garage, or against the side of a structure.
- 30 -
Learn More
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL and @MAE_GovNL
Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal Affairs and Environent
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca
2017 12 13 10:15 a.m.