This Holiday Season: Be Festive and Safe!

As we all get into the holiday spirit and begin decorating our apartments, it’s also important to think about safety. If you are going to be decorating your apartment with a tree, below are a few tips, drawn from the San Francisco Fire Department, which will ensure that your apartment is festive and safe.

• Tree Stand: If you are purchasing a real tree, use a tree stand (you can purchase one from your local hardware store) so your tree remains upright.
• Water: Real trees also require a minimum of a 2-day water supply. You’ll know if you have enough water if it covers the tree stem by at least 2 inches. Check your water at least once/day to ensure your tree stays hydrated.
• Disposal: You can determine it’s time to dispose of your real tree when the needles fall off readily when a tree branch is shaken, or if the needles are brittle and break when bent between the thumb and index finger. You should check the tree daily for dryness.
• Placement: Be sure that your tree does not block any exits in the event of an emergency.
• Safety: Be sure to keep your tree from the radiators and any candles or electrical wiring.
• Artificial Trees: If you decide to purchase an artificial tree, make sure to check the packaging to ensure that it meets the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701.

If you’re looking for a place to purchase a natural tree, check out Yelp. If you have any questions regarding Christmas tree regulations, you should contact the Bureau of Fire Prevention of the San Francisco Fire Department at 415.558.3300.