Exercise Christmas tree safety Published Jan. 25, 2006 By Staff Sgt. Jevon King 20th Civil Engineer Squadron SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- What's a holiday party or even the traditional Christmas morning scene without a beautiful decorated tree?The many American households who choose to have a natural tree for the holiday season need to take to heart the sales person's suggestion -- keep the tree watered.According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas tree fires account for more than 400 fires, 10 deaths, 80 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage annually.Well-watered trees are usually not a problem. However, dry and neglected trees can become a fire hazard.Remember, when selecting a natural tree, the needles should be green and hard to pull back from the branches. The needles should not break if tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to touch.Older trees can be identified by bouncing the trunk of the tree on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has not been recently cut, is probably dried out and is definitely a fire hazard.When placing a tree indoors, do not put it close to a heating source, including a fireplace or heating vent.Keeping the tree stand filled with water at all times will help prevent the tree from drying out.Here are some more Christmas tree safety tips to keep your home safe for the holidays:- Cut 1 inch off the trunk of tree to help absorb water.- A 6-foot tree will normally use 1 gallon of water every two days.- Check water level every day.- Never use candles to decorate, even on artificial trees.- Always turn the Christmas tree lights off before going to bed or leaving the house.For more information about fire safety, call the 20th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services Flight at 895-4600.(Some information provided by the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Fire Administration)