Christmas Trees - Safety Tips

Here are practical Christmas tree safety tips to help protect pets and children during the holidays 🎄🐾👶:

🎄 Tree Selection & Setup

• Choose a sturdy tree (real or artificial) with a wide, stable base.
• Anchor the tree to a wall or ceiling with fishing line or a tree strap to prevent tipping.
• Place the tree away from play areas, stairs, and doorways.

💡 Lights & Electrical Safety

• Use LED lights (cool to the touch, energy efficient).
• Inspect cords for fraying or damage before decorating.
• Hide or secure cords so pets and toddlers can’t chew or pull them.
• Turn lights off when leaving the room or going to bed.

🧸 Ornament & Decoration Safety

• Place breakable ornaments high on the tree.
• Avoid decorations that look like toys, food, or treats.
• Skip hooks—use ornament ties that are harder to remove.
• Avoid tinsel; it can cause serious intestinal blockages if swallowed by pets.

🐶🐱 Pet-Specific Safety Tips

• Avoid edible decorations (popcorn strings, candy canes).
• Keep tree water covered or use a sealed tree stand—tree water can contain harmful bacteria or preservatives.
• Watch for fallen needles, which can irritate paws or be swallowed.
• Consider a pet deterrent spray on the lower branches.

👶 Child Safety Tips

• Teach children not to pull branches or cords.
• Keep small ornaments and decorations out of reach to prevent choking.
• Avoid placing gifts under the tree early if they encourage climbing or grabbing.

🔥 Fire Safety

• If using a real tree, water it daily—dry trees are a major fire risk.
• Keep the tree at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, heaters, and candles.
• Never decorate with open flames.

🧯 Extra Peace of Mind

• Test smoke detectors before the holidays.
• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible.
• Supervise pets and young children when the tree is lit.