Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips Every The Points Household Should Know
The Christmas tree is often the heart of holiday decorating—whether it’s real or artificial, it’s where we gather to share memories, open gifts, and soak in the season’s joy. But did you know Christmas trees can also be a serious fire hazard?
While fires involving Christmas trees don’t happen often, when they do, they tend to be fast-moving and destructive. That’s why the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shares reminders each year to help families across communities like The Points stay safe and enjoy a worry-free holiday.
Here’s what you need to know:
If You Have a Real Tree
There’s something special about the scent and look of a real Christmas tree—but it comes with extra responsibility. A dry tree can catch fire in seconds.
How to pick a safe one:
- Look for green needles that don’t fall off when you touch them.
- Cut 2 inches off the base of the trunk before putting it in the stand.
- Always keep the tree stand full of water—check it daily.
Where to put it:
- Keep it at least 3 feet away from heaters, fireplaces, radiators, or candles.
- Don’t block doorways or exits.
- If the needles start to get brittle or fall off easily, it’s time to take it down.
If You Have an Artificial Tree
Artificial trees are convenient, reusable, and often pre-lit—but they can still be a fire risk, especially if made with combustible materials.
Here’s what to check:
- Make sure the tree is labeled as flame-resistant or tested to meet fire safety standards.
- Don’t overload it with lights or decorations that get warm to the touch.
- Keep it away from heat sources, just like you would with a real tree.
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Light Your Tree Safely
Lights are beautiful—but they’re also the number one cause of Christmas tree fires.
Tips to light it right:
- Only use lights that have been tested and approved by a recognized lab (look for UL or ETL marks).
- Toss out any strands with frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections.
- Never use lit candles on or near your tree.
- Turn off your lights before bed or leaving the house.
Other Things That Can Spark Trouble
- Candles: More than 1 in 10 tree fires start with a candle.
- Lamps and bulbs: They caused about 20% of tree fires in recent years.
- Living rooms: That’s where 40% of Christmas tree fires start.
After the Holidays
When the holidays wind down, don’t let your tree become a fire risk.
- Get rid of your real tree once it dries out—or shortly after Christmas.
- Never leave a dried-out tree in your home, garage, or leaning against the house.
- Check with local The Points services or your HOA for tree recycling programs.
- Bring in outdoor lights and store them safely so they last longer.
Christmas Tree Fires by the Numbers
- Fire departments respond to about 155 home tree fires each year.
- These fires cause around 4 deaths, 7 injuries, and $15 million in damage annually.
- A third of them are caused by electrical problems.
- A heat source too close to the tree is to blame in 1 out of every 5 cases.
A Safer Season Starts at Home
The good news? These fires are preventable. By staying aware and following just a few simple guidelines, you can protect your home and family—and enjoy everything the season has to offer.
For more tips, check out the NFPA’s website at nfpa.org/education, or contact your local fire department in The Points for more info.
From all of us here at My Neighborhood News to your family—have a safe, bright, and joyful holiday season!
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
