CHRISTiViAS F IRE prECAUTIOHS
Year after year, combustible decorations, improper use of electricity
and other means of lighting (such as candles ) and human carelessness re
sult in needless fire tragedies at Christmas time.
In order to minimize fire hazards and with the hope of assuring happy
holidays for all personnel and their families, the following simple rules
are submitted by your station Fire Department.
A. Use no paper, cotton or other combustible decorations. Approved flame
proof materials may be acceptable, but every effort should be made to
use noncombustible decoration. .. .... ,
B. Do not leave tree lights burning when no-one is in the area. Inspect
the trees from time to time and, if needles near the lights show in
dications of drying or turning brown, move the lights.
C. Do not set up the tree until 2 or 3 days before Christmas5 in the
meanwhile, make a fresh (slanted) cut a few inches above the original cut
of the trunk and keep the tree in a cool, outside place with the base in
a container of water. When setting up,stand the tree firmly in a con
tainer of water or wet sand. A substantial- tree stand with built-in
water container is preferreds keep the container filled by "topping
off" each day. •
D. Locate the Christmas tree in a relatively cool place, well away from
any heaters or heating devices. Do not locate it near a stairway or
exit. Christmas trees and decorations in offices, clubs, recreation
area will be inspected by the Fire Department personnel. Christmas
trees in family housing will be inspected by the Fire Department per
sonnel upon request.
E. If lights are used, use only those lighting sets that are in good
conditions (not frayed). Discard all wornout cords. Do not over load
electrical circuits. Under no circumstances should electric trains
or appliances be connected under the tree.
F. Be careful with matches and open flame. Do. not allow smoking near
the Christmas tree.
G. Plan what to do if fire breaks out. Know the provisions of the
station Fire Bill and notify the Fire Department immediately if fire
occurs. Be sure "baby sitters" know what to do in case of fire.
H. There is no known successful method of "fire proofing" Christmas trees.
At best, a Christmas tree is a damgerous, potential torch.
Residents are encouraged to observe those precautionary measures so
that a merry, safe Christmas and Happy, Fire-Free New Year will be
enjoyed by all.
Station Fire Department