Christmas is upon us, and while all is happy and carefree, we need to be careful for the safety of ourselves and our children. The following are just a few tips to make your holiday season a little safer.

FRESH TREES: When buying a natural tree, check the needles to make sure they are "bendable" . IF they snap and break, the tree is already drying out and it is not a good choice, as it may be a fire hazard. Give the tree a good shake, and bang it gently on the ground. If a lot of needles fall off, the tree is too dry. When you buy the tree, it is a good idea to cut off part of the trunk and put it in a sturdy Christmas tree stand, and keep it well watered. Always place it away from heat sources of any kind as not to induce the drying process.When the needles begin to fall off in large quantities, it is probably a good idea to throw it out.

ARTIFICIAL TREES: always read the directions to make sure certain lights can be used on them.  Make sure wires from the branches are filed at the end so that children or adults will not cut themselves on them.  Be aware of rust on the wire branch ends.  This is dangerous in an open wound.

DECORATIONS: Mistletoe and holly berries may be poisonous if more than a few are swallowed. Old tinsel may contain lead. Discard old tinsel if you are not sure if it contains lead.

TREE ORNAMENTS AND TRIMMINGS: Avoid placing small or breakable ornaments on lower branches where children or pets can reach them and knock them off. Every year many children are treated for cuts from broken ornaments, or from swallowing broken pieces and small parts- especially the "clip tops" of bulb ornaments as they fall off easily.

FIREPLACES: Fireplaces are very popular during the holidays. Do not burn wrappings from gifts. These can burn extremely fast, throwing off sparks that can start outside fires.

OUTDOOR AND INDOOR LIGHTING: Use only UL approved lighting. Check electric lights each year for broken or cracked sockets or damaged wires. Do not use indoor lights outdoors or visa-versa. Do not overload extension cords, and do not connect more than the allowed sets of lights to one cord. You should never use lit candles on or near a tree. Always turn off all Christmas lights when you leave your home or go to sleep.

If you have a good Safety tip, please email it to us so we can add it to the site.