As we get ever closer to the holidays, people need to be mindful of potential fire hazards that exist when they place their yearly decorations.

Perry Fire Chief Chris Hinds says one of the biggest risks for house fires at this time of year is those who use live Christmas trees. He points out that most tree fires can be prevented with a little extra preparation. “We want to make sure when we bring those trees home to cut at least an inch off the bottom of that tree before you put it in the base, so that it has a fresh end that’s not sealed over by any sap or anything like that. And when it goes on that base, immediately put water to it, and it’ll be able to pull that water up out of the base. Basically (it will) drink and keep itself hydrated and fresh.”

Hinds adds, depending on the type of base you have for the tree, it could be helpful to cut the trunk at an angle, which would allow more of a surface to absorb water. He also emphasizes to make sure the tree always has enough water, as there’s not much more flammable than dried pine needles. Other tips Hinds offers for holiday fire safety include: never overload outlets when plugging in decorations; keep any open flames like candles away from live trees; and obey the suggested connection limits when stringing together several strands of lights.

To hear more from Hinds, listen to today’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program on air and at RaccoonValleyRadio.com.