10 Safety Tips for Tree Decorating This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and beautiful decorations. While many of us love the tradition of decorating Christmas trees and adorning our homes with festive lights, it’s important to prioritize safety to ensure a happy and accident-free holiday season.

At Kilmurry Tree, we’re not only experts in tree care and removal but also passionate about helping you enjoy the holidays safely. That’s why we’ve put together some essential safety tips to keep in mind while decorating your trees—both indoors and outdoors.

1. Choose the Right Tree (Fresh or Artificial)

• For Fresh Trees: If you’re opting for a real Christmas tree, select one that’s fresh with green, pliable needles that don’t fall off easily. A dry tree is a fire hazard, especially when decorated with lights.
• For Artificial Trees: Make sure it’s labeled as “fire-resistant” to reduce the risk of fire.

2. Position Your Tree Safely

• Place your tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters.
• Avoid blocking doorways or emergency exits with your tree, ensuring that it’s positioned safely in a corner or another secure spot.
• Use a sturdy tree stand and secure the tree properly to prevent it from tipping over, especially if you have pets or small children.

3. Use Safe and Tested Lights

• Inspect Your Lights: Before hanging lights, check for frayed wires, broken sockets, and loose connections. Faulty lights can cause electric shocks or fires.
• Use LED Lights: LED lights are safer, more energy-efficient, and produce less heat compared to traditional incandescent lights.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Only use lights that are specifically labeled for outdoor use on trees outside. Indoor lights are not designed to withstand moisture and weather conditions.

4. Practice Safe Ladder Use for Outdoor Decorations

• Use a stable ladder with a partner to hold it steady while you hang lights or decorations on outdoor trees.
• Wear non-slip shoes and avoid decorating in wet or windy conditions to prevent falls.
• Keep extension cords off the ground to avoid tripping hazards, and use outdoor-rated extension cords for exterior decorations.

5. Be Mindful of Electrical Safety

• Don’t overload electrical outlets or power strips, as this can lead to overheating and potential fires.
• Avoid connecting more than three strands of lights together in one outlet. Instead, use a surge protector to distribute the electrical load.
• Unplug lights and decorations when you’re not home or when going to bed to reduce the risk of an electrical fire.

6. Use Non-Flammable Decorations

• Choose ornaments and decorations made of non-flammable materials like plastic, metal, or glass, especially if you have lights on your tree.
• Avoid using real candles on or near your Christmas tree. Opt for battery-operated candles that are much safer.

7. Keep Your Tree Hydrated

• If you have a real tree, water it daily to keep it fresh. A dry tree is much more likely to catch fire, especially with hot lights or electrical malfunctions.
• Consider adding a tree preservative to the water to keep your tree healthy throughout the holiday season.

8. Be Cautious with Outdoor Trees Near Power Lines

• When decorating trees in your yard, make sure they are clear of power lines. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards, especially when using tall ladders or metal decorations.
• If your outdoor tree is too close to a power line, it may be best to leave it undecorated or consult a professional to handle the job safely.

9. Secure Outdoor Inflatables and Decorations

• If you’re adding inflatable decorations or large ornaments to your outdoor trees, secure them properly to avoid them becoming projectiles in windy conditions.
• Use weather-resistant clips and fasteners to keep everything securely in place.

10. Dispose of Your Tree Safely

• For real trees, once the holiday season is over, don’t let your tree linger too long. A dried-out tree is a fire hazard, so remove it promptly.
• Explore safe tree disposal options or recycling services to ensure that your tree is disposed of responsibly and efficiently.

Decorating your tree should be a fun and joyous tradition, not a cause of accidents or injuries. By following these safety tips, you can create a festive atmosphere in your home while ensuring the safety of your family, pets, and property.

From all of us at Kilmurry Tree, we wish you a safe, happy, and memorable holiday season. If you need any assistance with tree trimming, removal, or safe disposal, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Contact our Kilmurry Tree Service team for a professional assessment and expert care. 

Call us now at  770-917-0808 or request a quote to schedule a free consultation.

Happy Holidays!