The most anticipated winter holidays – New Year and Christmas – are just around the corner. And what is New Year without a festive fir tree? Many have already started thinking about purchasing and setting up a forest beauty.

 However, amidst the festive atmosphere, one should not forget about safety. To ensure that New Year and Christmas leave only happy memories, let's recall some simple rules together.

The purchase of a forest beauty, or its artificial counterpart, requires care and caution.

  • A real fir tree should have fresh green needles, and its trunk should be resinous and sticky to the touch. A long-felled and dry tree is extremely flammable; it certainly won't need much persuasion to "burn, little tree."

  • An artificial fir tree should be purchased from a specialized store. Do not hesitate to ask for a safety certificate.

Most artificial fir trees are easily flammable and release toxic substances when burning. This applies more to older ones, as many modern trees are made from non-flammable materials or are treated with a special compound that protects them from ignition.

The fir tree should stand on a stable base and be securely fastened so that it cannot be knocked over by small children or a cat that suddenly decides to play with the decorations. The tree should be placed away from heating radiators and electrical appliances. It is also advisable to keep it away from a baby's crib – the tree's bulky silhouette might frighten a little one at night. The best location is a corner away from the main walkway. There, the tree will not be in anyone's way.

 Do not decorate the tree with easily flammable toys, homemade electric garlands, cover the base of the tree with cotton wool, or adorn it with burning candles. These rules apply to both real and artificial trees.

The best decoration for a New Year tree is an electric garland. When purchasing one, pay attention to the presence of a certificate. The wires in the garland should have reliable insulation, without kinks or cracks. The higher the wattage of the bulbs, the hotter they get. A 25W bulb can reach temperatures of up to 100 degrees Celsius. At such temperatures, paper, gauze, and cotton wool can ignite.

  • Do not buy electric garlands of dubious origin.

  • Do not use more than three garlands simultaneously.

  • Never leave garlands switched on when you leave home or go to bed.

  • Explain to children that electric garlands are not toys: they should not be touched, switched on or off without adults.

  • Do not use garlands and extension cords intended for indoor use outdoors.

  • Ensure that pets do not chew the garland wires.

Remember, your life, health, and safety are primarily in your own hands! Take care of yourself!