COLUMBUS – Ohio’s top fire safety official says it’s time to get rid of that Christmas tree before it become a fire hazard.
“The longer trees remain in homes, the higher the fire risk,” said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home, garage, or placed outside against the house.”
Although Christmas tree fires are not common, the National Fire Protection Association says a third of home fires involving Christmas trees happen in January as the trees begin to dry out and become fire hazards, Reardon said.
His office recommends residents check with their local community to find a recycling program.
Also, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources recommends recycling your tree as a wildlife habitat.