7 years ago I couldn't fathom that any of our family holiday traditions could be over after a fire burned down the family home. But suddenly many of the old traditions changed after that horrible day.
We've changed much since that day in February, including replacing the house and everything that goes in it, and making sure that everything meets the latest in fire safety codes and technology. That also included our new Christmas traditions and decorations. Some of it became a little more or a little less kitch, but all of it is safer and more efficient than the last batch we had on and around the tree.
Luckily the one tradition we didn't have to change is the people we enjoy it with. They all survived the fire and we are making sure that the future holidays keep them safely in the picture.
We've also decided that we need to use more eco-friendly products. And, happily the rest of the world is living in the same world we are -- safe and eco-friendly products all over for purchase.
First things first, make sure your cut tree stays hydrated and doesn't dry out, becoming kindling for any hot lights you put on them. The newer lights take this into account, but it's always safer to have a tree that isn't dried out within days after bringing it home from the tree lot. You can either make sure you continuously manually water it or you can use the new auto-watering systems that come in all different styles:
Evergreen Seasons 200001 - Christmas Tree Watering System with Holly Design
Evergreen Seasons 300001 - Christmas Tree Watering System with Snowflake Design
Of course, you still want to make certain that your tree doesn't fall over, so a great tree stand and a tree stand tray are in order to prevent accidental water overflows that could flood any electrical cables. Both will help control that problem quickly.
Once you have set up a safe tree environment, you'll need to select safe tree lights. Many of the new lights available aren't only beautiful, but they're also energy efficient and eco-friendly.
Good Tidings 31980 - X - well SuperBright Clear Lights on White Cord
Another option you may find that will save you all the steps above is by opting for an Artificial Tree that has all the lights already attached and won't require all the steps above. Of course, we've always been a live-tree-farm kind of a family, but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't consider the easy option of a pre-lit artificial tree. These are easy to fold up and reuse every year over and over again. They come in many colors to match your home and Christmas decorations.
National Tree Co. PEJF1-302-75 - 7.5' Jersey Fir Artificial Christmas Tree with Clear Lights
I hope that some of these hints help in keeping your holidays safe, memorable and fire-free. Enjoy. DivaAnke
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