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Christmas Safety Tips
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Consider an artificial tree (they are much safer and cleaner).
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Cut 1 inch off the trunk to help absorb water.
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A real tree should not lose green needles when you tap it on the
ground.
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Leave the tree outside until ready to decorate.
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The stand should hold at least 1 gal. of water.
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A 6' tree will use 1 gallon of water every two days.
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Mix a commercial preservative with the water.
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Check the water level every day.
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Secure the tree with wire to keep it from tipping.
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Keep tree away from floor heaters, fire places,
or other heat sources.
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Use only UL-approved lights, and no more than 3 strands linked
together.
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Use miniature lights--which have cool-burning bulbs.
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Turn off the Christmas lights when you sleep, or if you leave your
home for very long.
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Never use candles, even on artificial trees.
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Clean the tree stand to improve the tree's water intake, use one
capful of
bleach to a cup of water.
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Dispose of the tree properly. NEVER BURN IN THE FIREPLACE.
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Home Safety
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Install a smoke detector or new batteries in the
one(s) you have and TEST it.
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Use only outdoor lights outside your home.
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Examine light strings each year, discard worn ones.
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Fasten the bulbs securely and point the sockets
down to avoid moisture build up.
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Connect no more than three strands together.
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Never use indoor extension cords outside.
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Avoid overloading wall outlets and extension cords.
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Keep outdoor electrical connectors above ground and out of puddles
and snow.
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Unplug light string before replacing a bulb. Review the original
package to verify proper wattage and voltage.
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When connecting light strands, wrap a plastic bag around
connections and tie ends with teflon tape.
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Never use electric lights on a metallic tree, use colored spot
lights.
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Make sure trees hung with Christmas lights are not touching power
lines.
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When using candles, place them a safe distance from combustibles.
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Place candles in sturdy containers. Remember, hot wax burns kids.
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Extinguish candles prior to going to bed.
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Dispose of fireplace ashes into a metal container until cold.
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After parties, check around and under sofa and chair cushions for
smoldering cigarettes. (Provide lots of ash trays)
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Install at least one carbon monoxide detector in your home.
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Have an operable fire extinguisher readily available.
See Using
The Correct Extinguisher.
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"Safety" gift ideas
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Put together a gift basket containing one or more of the following
items:
Three smoke detectors and batteries. A quality fire extinguisher. A
flashlight and batteries or light sticks. A first-aid kit. A carbon
Monoxide detector. A mobile phone. A second floor escape ladder.
"Emergency kit"- energy bars, water, battery radio,
flashlight/light sticks and a first-aid kit packed in a small travel
bag.
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Please have an enjoyable and safe Christmas
Season.
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