Fire department issues warning after Christmas tree fire
(McKinney FD)
McKINNEY, Texas - Although it may seem like common sense, the McKinney Fire Department is reminding people to dispose of their Christmas trees safely.
The department shared a photo of a charred fireplace on Facebook after responding to a fire Saturday morning.
Apparently, someone in the home tried to burn a Christmas tree in the fireplace and it didn’t end well.
"This is what happens when you try to burn a Christmas tree in a home fireplace. This is from a fire we responded to this morning. Please dispose of trees properly! #firesafety #christmastrees," the McKinney Fire Department said on the post.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends that Christmas trees always be placed at least 3 feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
After Christmas, trees should be disposed of properly such as through a community recycling program. Many cities offer curbside pickup or have designated drop-off sites.
"Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home," the NFPA said on its Christmas tree safety tip sheet.