Candles, dry trees cause Christmas disasters
To avoid fires, Madison Fire & Rescue Department urges caution with candles, heat sources and trees for Christmas decorating. Sponsored by Main Street Cafe, the pictured tree won the “People’s Choice” award in the 2016 Tree Decorating Contest on Main Street. RECORD PHOTOS/GREGG L. PARKER
* Fresh trees — Confirm green needles don’t fall off when touched. Before placing it in sand, cut one to two inches from the trunk base. Add water and check daily.
* Placement — Don’t block exits. Place three feet minimum from fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, candles and lights.
* Lights — Only use lights labeled from an independent testing laboratory. Use indoor/outdoor lights in appropriate locations. Turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed.
* Disposal — Recycle/discard the tree immediately after Christmas.