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Watch out for flaming trees

Watch out for flaming trees

Watch out for flaming trees

If you have already installed your Christmas tree or plan to do so soon, the following advice is important to help keep you and your family safe from a potentially devastating fire.

To the dismay of purists, we must start by insisting that it is better to choose an artificial tree since it is less likely to catch on fire than a natural tree.

However, if you go for the natural tree option, here’s what you need to remember:

  • Select a freshly cut tree, whose needles do not shed easily.
  • Cut the trunk at an angle and place it in a container of water. Water it daily.
  • Install the tree more than 1 m away from all heat sources (electric baseboard, heater, fireplace, etc.).
  • Unplug the Christmas lights when the tree begins to dry out.

DECORATIVE LIGHTS

Here’s what to choose:

  • Lights that are CSA or ULC certified.
  • LED bulbs (low-heat-emitting).

Important

  • Discard any lights that are defective, dried, or cracked.
  • Make sure your replacement bulbs have the same voltage as the old ones.
  • Choose outdoor-use decorative lights for outdoors and plug any item used outdoors into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
  • After the festive season, bring in outdoor lights to prevent damage from the weather and sun. Decorative lights are not designed for long-term use.
  • Never overload the electrical system.
  • Use a timer or always unplug your decorative lights when you leave home or go to bed.

EXTENSION CORD

Here’s what to choose:

  • Models CSA or ULC certified.
  • Avoid cords that are too long (may overheat).

Important

  • Use an extension cord designed for outdoor use for your outdoor decorations.
  • Use only one extension cord at a time.
  • Do not overload outlets and extension cords. Use a power strip instead.
  • Do not hide your extension cords under a rug or carpet.
  • Do not leave an extension cord in a doorway.

Jackie Beaudoin, Leclerc Insurance and Financial Services
Source : Québec.ca