As we enter the holiday season, there is one thing that sometimes gets ignored: the Christmas tree.

They are beautiful additions for the holiday season, but can easily be forgotten. Fire safety and Christmas trees are two things that go hand-in-hand, but, on occasion, are the last thought a family has when they gather for their family festivities.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, one in every 32 reported home Christmas tree fires result in a death.

By increasing the awareness about holiday fires, we can possibly minimize the number of fires that occur. Making a routine of watering your tree every day at the same time will help you not forget to water the tree at all.

The U.S. Fire Administration further states Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, it is because of shorts in electrical lights or open flames that start the tree fires.

Well-watered trees are not a problem, while a dry and neglected tree can be. One in four fires are a result of having your tree too close to a heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights. Keeping the tree base filled with water at all times is the best way to prevent the tree from drying out.

With Christmas tree sales totaling approximately $13 million annually, I can only imagine how many homes across the U.S. have trees in them.

Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night at bed time, and, when your tree begins to drop its needles, it’s time to say goodbye to your evergreen until next year.

Enjoy this time of year with family and friends. Happy Holidays from the Alpena Post!

Ashley Simpson is a Community Service Trooper for the MSP Alpena Post. If you have a question for Trooper Simpson, you can email her at asktroopersimpson@gmail.com or mail them to Ask A Trooper, Michigan State Police – Alpena Post, 3283 W. Washington Ave, Alpena, MI 49707.