Fire service warning about parched Christmas trees

Real Christmas trees can become a fire hazard when dried out, Jersey's fire service said

Christmas trees can become a fire hazard if they are allowed to dry out, according to Jersey's fire service.

Jersey Fire and Rescue said people should keep cut Christmas trees well watered to stop them becoming parched and keep them away from fires and other heat sources.

The service said people should pick trees with green needles that have not started to dry out.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "If your tree does catch light, do not try to tackle the fire - get out, stay out and call 999."

Christmas tree guidelines

The fire service has given a series of guidelines for real Christmas trees.

Choose the right tree

• Pick a tree with green needles that are hard to pull back from the branches and do not snap off easily.

• The trunk should be sticky to touch, because of the fresh sap.

• If you bounce the tree and lots of needles fall out, it's old and could be a fire hazard.

Look after your tree

• Do not put your tree near a source of heat like a fireplace or heat vent as it will dry it out, meaning it could catch fire more easily.

• Do not drop or flick cigarette ash near your tree.

• Do not put your tree up too early as it will start drying out.

• Keep the tree stand watered at all times to stop it drying out.

Dispose of your tree responsibly

• Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove, as moisture and sap can cause them to burn violently and small explosions can occur that can propel embers across a room.

• When the tree dries out, dispose of it straight away.

• You can take it to a recycling centre or have it taken away by a charity, or community pickup service.