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Virginia Beach Fire Dept. provides 7 tips to help avoid Christmas tree fires

Posted at 4:51 PM, Dec 21, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-21 16:52:41-05

Virginia Beach, Va. – The Virginia Beach Fire Department is taking action to help keep families safe from Christmas tree related fires by hosting a demonstration of how easily a Christmas tree can go up in flames.

U.S. Fire Departments responded to an average of 210 house fires that began with Christmas trees in 2009-2013, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

One in every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in death, meaning these fires are much more likely to be deadly than most other fires.

Here are some tips to keep you safe during the holidays:

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

-Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2-inches from the base of the trunk.

-Be sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

-Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

-Be sure to add water to the tree stand daily.

-Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or lose bulb connections.

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