Our Opinion Christmas tree: symbol of life; reminder of fire safety

Because a Christmas tree is a symbol of life, its association with tragic house fires is particularly disturbing.

Christmas tree fires are not common, according to the National Fire Protection Association, but they are more likely to be serious when they do occur.

A Wednesday news story reported a Christmas tree is being investigated as the possible cause of an accidental fire that killed a Barnett woman and her 2-year-old daughter.

Don't be lulled into thinking you will have plenty of warning. A U.S. Fire Administration video shows a Christmas tree catching fire and engulfing a family room in 40 seconds.

And the toll is severe. The fire prevention association reports, between 2003 and 2006, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 240 house fires each year that started with Christmas trees. Those fires resulted in an annual average of 16 fatalities, 25 injuries and $13.1 million in property damage.

What can you do to minimize the chance of fires caused by Christmas trees?

First, avoid electric failures or malfunctions, which were responsible for nearly half the reported fires, according to the American Christmas Tree Association.

Discard worn or damaged lights, use products approved by UL or ETL/ITSNA, and connect to outlets protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters. In addition, don't forget to turn off tree lights at bedtime.

Second, do not put Christmas trees too close to a heat source, including fireplaces, radiators and heat vents.

Finally, water the tree regularly and discard it when needles begin to drop. Even a well-watered tree should be discarded after four weeks, according to the Christmas tree association.

While we're dealing with holiday fire safety, remember December is a peak time for home candle fires. The fire protection group reports 56 percent of them occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.

A Christmas tree is regarded as a symbol of life in the midst of winter because it can withstand cold, desolate conditions. Preserve that symbolism and protect both family and home by practicing safety this holiday.