Staying Fire Safe During the Holidays [Video]

Representatives of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs' Division of Fire Safety visited Lawrence Township on Wednesday (Dec. 14) and simulated a live Christmas tree catching fire to remind residents of hidden holiday dangers.

The event took place at Mercer County's on Lawrence Station Road. Firefighters from Slackwood Volunteer Fire Co. assisted.

State Fire Marshal William Kramer explained that dried-out trees catch fire quickly and provided tips to keep your home safe during the holidays:

• If possible, use a “live cut” tree from a tree farm
• When purchasing a pre-cut tree, make sure the bark is sticky to the touch and look for lots of tree “sap,” which is evidence the tree is fresh.
• Cut approximately one inch off the bottom of the stump. This fresh cut will ensure the tree can drink.
• Once you have the tree inside your home, fill the tree stand with water and keep it filled.
• Place the tree away from heating vents or baseboards. Heating a tree dries it out prematurely.
• Keep the tree away from stairwells and means of egress.
• Once the tree stops drinking water and starts to lose its needles, it is time to remove the tree.
• Always keep candles out of the reach of children and pets, and consider using flameless candles.
• Always use child-resistant lighters.
• Keep matches and lighters in a locked cabinet.
• Use tamper-resistant electrical receptacles inside the home.
• Each year, inspect each strand of electric lights for any frayed, exposed sections or gaps in the insulated covering. Check each socket to make sure it has retained its insulating integrity. Only use lighting that has been safety tested and has a UL or FM label.
• Do not overload your home’s electrical outlets that power the strand. More than three strands in any one string of lights are unsafe, unless the manufacturer says otherwise. Lights should not be extremely warm to the touch.
• Never leave lights unattended.