Water your Christmas tree to help prevent fires

Decking the halls in your home can surely add to the holiday cheer, but it can also be a safety hazard if not properly maintained.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that it only takes five seconds for a live tree that’s dried out to become fully engulfed in flames.

“Don’t have it near any heaters, small little space heaters are away from them. The biggest thing is to make sure you keep it watered at all times. Those trees do take in a lot of water, each and every day,” said Billy Skinner, Lowe’s assistant manager.

He recommends checking Christmas lights for any frayed wires before putting them on real and artificial trees.

And he also said do not overcrowd electrical outlets.

A sign that your tree may need more water is dry pine needles.

One couple said they always put up a real Christmas tree, but are careful.

“But I just make sure it has water in it always, always. If I have to put it twice then I put it twice. Sometimes it drinks a lot, sometimes it doesn’t,” said Michelle Reed, a Lowe’s shopper.

The National Fire Protection Association reported that on average, one of every 31 home Christmas fires resulted in a death.