![\"Lovely](\"http:\/\/i207.photobucket.com\/albums\/bb265\/PootDiddy\/trees_007.jpg\")
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Many families like to put their Christmas trees up the day or week following Thanksgiving, or in the end of November if Thanksgiving is not part of their holiday tradition. While I will be talking about how to choose the perfect tree, let\u2019s first discuss safety. Proper handling of your tree will avoid any potential accidents and make your holiday a safe and happy one. Use the following list to stay safe!<\/p>\n
1.When you first bring your tree home, if you are using a live tree, be sure to cut a 2 inch section from the bottom before placing it in the stand. This will encourage the tree to \u2018drink\u2019 the water you provide. A dry tree is a dangerous one. Needles will fall more quickly and dry branches are apt to cause a fire. Check the water and replenish it each day that your tree is used with lights.<\/p>\n
2.Check your lights whether you use new lights or the ones from previous holidays. Examine the wires for cracks, breaks, or fraying. Exposed wires can lead to sparks and fire. <\/p>\n
3.If you must use several strings of lights, use a power strip with surge protection. This will prevent problems with your power outlets.<\/p>\n
4.Many light strings may have lead in their construction. Wear gloves and wash your hands after decorating with lights.<\/p>\n
5.If you have children, especially small or special needs children, please use large plastic ornaments. Small children and special needs children tend to mouth objects. Tiny ornaments can be a choking hazard.<\/p>\n
6.When choosing plastic ornaments, try to avoid those with the label \u2018Made in China\u2019. With the recent levels of lead found in plastic toys and other products from China, it is a good idea to either avoid them or use latex gloves when handling any decoration made from materials imported from China for now. Do not allow children to touch them. Place them high on the tree, out of reach. Wash your hands.<\/p>\n
7.Do not use edible decorations like cranberries or stringed popcorn if you have small children. As with the previous points, small or special needs children will mouth nearly anything. The strings can become entangled in their intestines if swallowed or choke them by balling up in the mouth\/throat.<\/p>\n
8.No glass around children!<\/p>\n
9.Do not place any tree near a used fireplace, live or artificial.<\/p>\n
10.Unplug your lights when leaving home or before bed. Removing them from their power source is much safer than just turning them off or turning off the power strip.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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