The N.C. Forest Service is encouraging people to exercise caution this holiday season when caring for you Christmas trees.
“Real Christmas trees offer a great addition to your holiday decorations, but they do need a little extra attention,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “With proper care, a real tree can last up to two months, providing your home with a wonderful aroma and truly festive feel.”
The department offers the following tips for consumers to care for their real Christmas tree this holiday season:
• If you can’t set up your tree immediately, put it in a bucket of water in a cool, shady place.
• Cut off a half inch from the base of the tree before placing it in a stand.
• Use a stand that will hold at least a gallon of water.
• Check the water levels often. A tree may take up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours, and a quart per day after that.
• Place tree away from heat sources, such as heating vents, fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators and sunny windows.
• Check lights and cords for broken bulbs and frayed wiring.
• Do not overload electrical circuits.
• Turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Remove tree from your home promptly after Christmas and recycle it.
• If you’re cutting down your own tree, exercise caution and use proper personal protective equipment (PPE), especially when using a chainsaw. PPE includes hand, foot, leg, eye, face, hearing and head protection. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing. Additional safety information can be found at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/3269-10N-05-english-06-27-2007.html
North Carolina is the second-largest producer of Christmas trees in the nation, producing about a fifth of U.S.-grown trees. Consumers can purchase trees directly from choose-and-cut farms, at retail stores, as well as farmers markets and tree lots across the state.
To find real Christmas trees, choose-and-cut farms, poinsettias, wreaths and more holiday products, go to www.NCFarmFresh.com.
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