Keeping the Holidays Safe

Lights and Christmas trees are part of the season. Unfortunately, they also are sources of danger. Here’s a primer on how to be safe during the holidays:

Tree Care

Once a tree is brought inside, the heat of the house dries it out faster. The safest practice is to buy a potted, live tree or an artificial one. But if a cut tree is purchased, follow these tips:

* Before buying, check tree for freshness; a moist tree shouldn’t shed or have lots of brown needles.

* Once home, cut an inch off the trunk; place immediately in gallon bucket of water to prevent pores from resealing. Keep plenty of water, usually about 1 gallon, in stand each day.

* Place tree away from sources of heat such as fireplaces, televisions, or heating vents; don’t block exits with tree or rearranged furniture.

* Before decorating, check lights for frayed wires, loose connections, broken or cracked sockets and exposed wire; don’t overload extension cords.

* Don’t decorate tree with lights designed for outdoor use or with candles.

* Always turn off tree lights before leaving house or going to bed.

* Promptly remove tree after Christmas; recycle trees into mulch at a participating park or leave at curb on collection day.

Light Ways

If your light strings show any signs of wear, toss them and get new ones. Also:

* Never use outdoor lights inside or indoor lights outside.

* Do not leave outdoor lights up all year; cords corrode when they are exposed to weather and can cause fires.

* Do not use more than three sets of lights on any one extension cord, to avoid overloading circuits.

* Buy only lights that have the UL (Underwriters Laboratory) safety label.

* Never use lights on a metallic tree--they can become charged and cause electrocution; instead, spotlight the tree from a distance.

* Always turn lights off before going to bed or leaving the house.

* Remember “bubbling lights” contain toxic fluid, methylene chloride, and are hazardous to children.

Sources: Orange County Fire Authority, National Safety Council, Times reports; Researched by LESLEY WRIGHT / For the Times