Waco Fire Department warns of Christmas tree fire dangers
Officials demonstrate how dry trees can ignite in seconds, urge proper watering and safety precautions
WACO, Texas (KWTX) - With Christmas just days away, the Waco Fire Department is reminding residents with real trees to water them regularly to prevent house fires.
The department demonstrated how a dry tree can ignite within seconds. While a watered tree will still burn, it does not catch fire as quickly or intensely as a dry one.
Officials are also urging people to keep trees away from heat sources that could spark a fire.
“Stay safe in the holiday season make sure you’re keeping your fireplace closed off or away from your Christmas trees and your decorations don’t have your portable heaters too close to the trees,” said Larry Denman, Fire Prevention Engineer with the Waco Fire Department. “Check your extension cords don’t plug extension cords into more extension cords it’ll build heat and inspect your lights before putting them on the tree and if your tree already has lights on it inspect the tree make sure there are no bare wires or any chances for fire.”
Officials are urging residents to keep these safety tips in mind as Christmas approaches.
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