5 tips to prevent Christmas tree fires

Natural pine trees can pose a fire hazard, and quickly turn holiday decorations from festive to deadly.

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service has five tips to help minimize the risk of a tree related house fire.

• Choose a fresh tree with green needles, and hard to pull or break branches. The tree should feel sticky, and needles shouldn’t come off easily when the trunk is shaken. If the tree becomes dry, discard it.
• Keep the tree away from all heat sources, such as fireplaces, vents and cigarettes. Heat dries out the tree, causing it to be easily ignited by flames or sparks.
• Do not leave the tree up for longer than two weeks.
• Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.
• Do not dispose of tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood-burning stove.