Welcome to December’s Community Safety Zone!
Many families in Navan celebrate Christmas!
A big part of the holiday tradition is obtaining and decorating a tree that we have on display in our homes. With all the seasonal cheer it is possible to overlook sound safety practices when it is time to set up and maintain our Christmas tree.
Choosing a tree
- When choosing a real tree for your home, select one with with fresh green needles that do not easily fall off when touched. The trunk butt of a fresh tree its sticky with resin.
- If you choose to use an artificial tree, look for the label “fire resistant”. The type of tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.
Setting up the tree
- For real trees cut 2” from the base of the trunk to ensure maximum hydration when you first set it up.
- Make sure the tree is placed at least 3 feet away from any heat sources (i.e. fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, etc) and ensure the tree is out of the way of foot traffic and not blocking any exits. Secure the tree well to prevent tipping over.
It is necessary to keep real trees well watered throughout the time is is set up.
Lights and electrical
- Make sure the lights you use on your tree are for indoor use and are CSA approved. Check each set of lights for broken or cracked sockets as well as frayed or bare wires.
- Use no more than three standard size sets of lights per since extension cord.
- Turn off all the Christmas tree lights when you leave the house or go to bed.
- Use only non-combustible or flame resistant material to trim the tree and in homes with small children or pets avoid using decorations that are sharp or breakable.
We appreciate hearing your comments, receiving your concerns and taking suggestions for future Community Safety Zone topics. Please feel free to email us at safety@navan.on.ca.
Wishing all residents of Navan a very happy and safe holiday season!