Even though taking down the Christmas tree isn’t nearly as fun as putting it up, it is just as important in terms of safety precautions. The longer the tree stays up, the greater a fire hazard it becomes.
The following are tips for when and how to take down the tree:
- It’s best to discard the tree within one month of purchasing it.
- When needles start to fall from the tree, it’s time to take it down.
- Do not leave it in the house or store it in the garage. Take it out to the street or to a place where Christmas trees are disposed of in your neighborhood. This is usually a recycling center or designated place in your town.
- Never burn Christmas trees in a fireplace or woodstove. Firs and pines have a lot of sap which can explode. The needles burn like tinder, quickly and fiercely. Flames can flair up out of control and send sparks flying across the room.
- Have other family members or friends help you take down the tree if it’s large. Have them help you drag it outside as well.
- Never place the tree in the road in the way of vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
Have a safe and happy beginning and end to your holiday season!
