Do you find your Christmas tree not lasting as long as you'd like? Is it barely making it through the holiday season? Here are some helpful hints that will keep your tree healthy and safe.
- Make sure your tree is well supplied with water. This will keep it fresh and fire resistant.
- A tree can absorb up to a gallon of water within its first 24 hours, so make sure you use a stand that holds at least that amount of water.
- Before you put the tree in its stand, make a straight cut across the base of the trunk. This will help the tree absorb more water.
- Make sure your stand is filled with water. Sap will form over the stump within six hours and it will prevent the tree from absorbing water. If this happens, you will need to make another cut at the base of the stump.
- Make sure your tree is away from any home appliance or area that causes heat or drafts. This includes fireplaces, radiators, vents and home entertainment components, such as televisions and stereo systems.
- Do not decorate your tree with any material that is flammable, such as paper and cotton. Also, keep your tree away from burning candles and other open flames.
- Make sure the lights you plan to place on your tree are in working order. Also be sure not to overload your electric outlets.
- Be sure to unplug the lights before you leave your tree unattended.
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