Several people might be considering getting a live tree to decorate ahead of Christmas and there are a few things to keep in mind to prevent a fire from possibly happening.

Perry Fire Chief Grason Hill advises that after a live tree is brought to the home, always remember to trim the truck another 0.25 inch to get the freshest part of the truck before inserting it into the stand.

“Cut it on an angle that way the tree sap is sealed up and it will absorb water. People put a fresh tree directly into the stand and don’t cut the bottom, the sap’s there, and then their tree will die a lot quicker.”

Chief Hill adds that a dried out tree is a major fire hazard. He also recommends placing a real tree at least three feet from any heat source, making sure there are no broken wires on tree lights, not using candles and always turning off the tree lights when going to bed or leaving the house to further prevent a tree from possibly catching fire.