The City Explained How To NOT Light Your Christmas Tree On Fire

Cause 2020 would be the year...
Senior Writer

If any year was going to end with a bang, such as a Christmas tree fire, 2020 would be it. That's why it's very important we follow the City of Montreal's tips for celebrating the holiday season safely. After all, the last thing any of us needs right now is a trip to the hospital.

Alongside a terrifying photo, the city shared its advice for not lighting your Christmas tree on fire, among other important facets of staying safe over the holidays. 

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"Check out our prevention tips for your tree to help you have a memorable holiday season... for the right reasons!" reads the Facebook caption.

Here's the city's official advice:

Christmas Tree

  • Install the Christmas tree away from heat sources (electric baseboards, heaters, fireplaces, etc.).
  • Turn off the lights on your tree before going to sleep and when you leave the house.
  • Keep the tree outside and in the shade as long as possible to prevent it from drying out.
  • Cut off the base of the tree by about one centimetre before placing it in a container filled with water.
  • Add water daily to the base of the tree.

Candles and lights

  • Turn off the lights of interior and exterior decorations before going to sleep and when no one is home.
  • Place candles in a place out of reach of children or pets and where they are not likely to be knocked over.
  • Protect the flames of candles with a non-combustible container.
  • Extinguish all candles before leaving a room or going to sleep.

The city also recommends ensuring your home has accessible emergency exits, checking your kitchen appliances, making sure your carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are working and setting a timer when cooking. 

Have a happy holiday season, everyone, and stay safe!

  • Ilana Belfer
  • Editor

    Ilana Belfer (she/her) was an editor for MTL Blog. She's obsessed with great storytelling in all its forms having worked in print, radio, television, theatre, and digital media over the past decade. A graduate of Carleton University’s journalism program, her words have appeared in The Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, The Kit, VICE, Salon, Foodism TO & more — covering everything from cam girls to COVID-19. Ilana can usually be found with her dog André, tracking down Montreal’s prettiest ruelles vertes and tastiest treats.

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