Before you break out the menorah or light up that Christmas tree, the FDNY is reminding residents to celebrate safely this holiday season. The department has issued a list of tips for safe decorating.
- If you get an artificial Christmas tree, make sure it has a tag that says it's fire retardant.
- If you get a real tree, make sure at least 1 inch is cut off the bottom to absorb water, and keep in mind that it can go through up to a gallon of water a day.
- Make sure you put your tree in a solid base that will not tip over.
- Most Christmas-tree related fires are electrical, or star from a heat source nearby, such as a radiator.
- Opt for LED lights on your tree, as those don't get as warm.
- Use a power strip to plug in your lights.
- For candles, the fire department recommends battery-operated lights.
- If you must use real candles, do not ever leave them unsupervised.