An Evergreen Debate: Real or Fake Christmas Tree

12/1/2024 (Permalink)

As we’re still feeling the effects of the Thanksgiving food coma, we begin to shift our attention to one of the next major holidays of the year, Christmas!

With Christmas underway, we look towards one of its most debatable topics.

Are we using a real or fake Christmas tree this year?

While both options have their merits, one critical consideration is often overlooked: fire safety.

It's essential to make an informed choice. We’ll explore the differences between the two regarding fire safety.

Real Christmas Tree Fire Safety Concerns

When purchasing a real tree, choose a freshly cut one. To check the freshness of the tree, perform a pull test. First, gently pull on a shoot (any above-ground portion of a tree directly bearing leaves) with your thumb and fingers; if the tree is fresh, you should not have any needles come off in your hand.

If you are not displaying your tree right away, keep it in a cool area to prevent as much drying as possible since brittle and dry trees ignite more easily.

You must water your Christmas tree and check its water level daily to keep it from drying out. Make sure your tree is inside a sturdy stand.

If not done, and a fire was to occur on your tree, a dried-out tree will burn entirely within seconds versus a well-hydrated tree that will still have a fire, but there will be more time to react.

Remember to keep your real tree safely away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, and heating vents. Doing so will help prevent the tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.

When decorating your tree, use UL-listed lights. Ensure to check them for damage or exposed wires. Turn off the lights when you're not at home or before going to bed.

Finally, when the holiday is over, discard your tree promptly. Just because the holiday is over does not mean the tree is no longer a fire hazard.

Fake Christmas Tree Fire Safety Concerns

Fake Christmas trees, typically made from materials such as PVC, metal, or polyethylene, are generally considered safer in terms of fire risk. These materials are less flammable and do not dry out over time, reducing the potential for ignition.

Just know that as time goes by, certain materials may need replacing as they get worn out.

While fake Christmas trees are inherently safer in terms of fire risk, it's essential to ensure you maintain proper fire safety measures when decorating and lighting them.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when decorating your tree.

Use UL-Listed Lights: When decorating your fake tree, use lights that are UL-listed for safety. Check lights for damage, exposed wires, or fraying.

Safe Electrical Connections: Ensure all electrical connections are secure and avoid overloading circuits. Unplug the lights when you leave home or go to bed.

No Open Flames: Avoid using real candles on or near your fake tree to prevent the risk of ignition.

Proper Placement: Keep your fake tree away from heat sources, just as you would with a real tree. Doing so prevents any potential heat damage to the materials and ensures safety.

When choosing between a real or fake Christmas tree, it's important to weigh the fire safety considerations along with other factors.

Whichever you choose, celebrating safely and responsibly should be the top priority during this festive time of year.

Ensure that your decorations, lights, and electrical connections are in good condition, and follow safety guidelines to keep your home and loved ones protected.

Have a wonderful holiday!

P.S – If your home suffers fire damages over the holiday, know that SERVPRO of Lake Elsinore / Perris / Menifee Northwest has 24/7/365 emergency fire restoration services for the aftermath. Our team is always ready and nearby to help! Keep our number on file at 951-674-4006.