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Web Producer: Mekita Rivas

TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - Grant Cesarek with Rural/Metro Fire Department has these holiday safety tips for people celebrating the season. 

Christmas tree

-- If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the

manufacturer as fire retardant.

-- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched

-- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1-2" from the base of the trunk.

-- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces,

radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

-- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

-- Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree

-- Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only

for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.

-- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.

Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for

screw-in bulbs.

-- Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

-- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas

--Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and

should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with

your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside

after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

Holiday decorations

-- Place candles in proper holders to ensure the hot melted wax will not spill and the

candle will not tip over

-- Use UL approved lighting and decorations in your home

-- Check the wiring of decorative lighting for cracks or damage before use

-- Don't overload outlets and use power strips with integrated circuit breakers

-- Turn lighting off when going to bed and don't leave a tree unattended while the lights

are on

-- Don't leave outdoor holiday lighting up indefinitely, check the tags on the lights and

do not exceed the limitations set forth

-- Make sure decorations are labeled "flame resistant" or "fire retardant"