Clarendon County Fire Rescue shares tips on staying safe during the holidays

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CLARENDON COUNTY - It was exciting to see so many Christmas trees and decorations up before Thanksgiving this year, but it raises concern at the same time!

The more time cut trees and other natural vegetation is displayed, the greater the potential for them to be without water, dried out and unmaintained.

Follow these tips on avoiding a fire:

- Choose a healthy tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

- Immediately before placing a tree in its stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk; this can help the tree draw up water. If the cut surface is allowed to dry, it will reduce the water uptake to the tree.

- Always keep the tree well-watered. Make sure to check the water level in the stand daily.

- Ensure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source (e.g., space heaters, candles, fireplaces, heat vents or lights).

- Make sure that the tree, combustible vegetation or decorations do not block an exit.

- Only use decorative lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Make sure light bulbs, strings and connections are not broken or damaged in any way.

- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer's instructions for the number of light strands to connect.

- Always turn off tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

- Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

- Please get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry and keep it away from your home/garage.

- Check with your local community to find a recycling program.

Please help us help you have a safe and happy holiday season! For more information and to watch a video on fire safety, visit www.nist.gov/fire/holiday-fire-safety.