Christmas tree fires are a potential hazard of the season. Statistics show electrical failures or malfunctions are responsible for nearly half the tree fires each year. Another 27 percent of fires result because the tree is near a source of heat, like candles lanterns, kerosene heaters or gas-fired heaters.

Organizations like the National Fire Protection Association, the National Christmas Tree Association and Underwriters Laboratories say prevention is the key. The bottom line: Take care of your tree, take care where you place it and be careful what you put on it. In addition, fresh trees have limited life spans. Keep them in your home for no more than four weeks.

“If you put up your Christmas tree right after Thanksgiving, it needs to be taken down the week after Christmas,” said John Drengenberg, a spokesperson for UL. “After New Year’s, even well-watered trees can become fire hazards.”

Since electrical problems cause so many tree fires, make sure to use only high quality lights that are in good condition when decorating your tree. Always use lights with the UL seal. Throw away any strings of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Don’t connect more than three strands of push-in bulbs or a maximum of 50 screw-in bulbs.

It goes without saying that you should never use lit candles to decorate a tree–or to place the tree next to any lit candles in the room. The tree should be at least three feet from all heat sources, including candles, fireplaces and radiators.

For added safety, mount a smoke alarm near the tree. Put the lights on a timer so they’re only on during the hours you’re in the room, or just make a commitment to turn them on and off manually when you enter or exit the room. It’ll add to your safety, and reduce your electric bill.

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