Reply To: Holiday Decorations

[John Lake]

Hey Del,

I have an information sheet that I received from the OFM some time ago that states:

A4:

It is not intended that Christmas trees be included as ” other decorative materials”. The Fire Code has no provisions for regulating the combustibility of Christmas trees. However, Christmas trees, both real and artificial, can present a fire hazard and we recommend that the following guidelines be followed:

1. instead of a live tree use an artificial tree which has been tested to show that it is noncombustible;

2. tree decorations should be noncombustible;

3. ensure that tree lights are CSA approved, and check for and deterioration, loose wires, faulty connections, etc;

4. do not use candles and open flames on or near Christmas trees;

5. do not locate the tree in a means of egress or obstruct exit doors.

If you do use a real tree then, in addition to the above, the following guidelines should also be followed:

1. use a freshly cut tree and do not keep it indoors for any longer than necessary;

2. make a fresh cut on an angle at least one inch above the original cut end;

3. keep the tree standing in water during the period the tree is indoors;

4. add water to the container daily to keep the water level above the angled cut of the trunk;

5. check the tree daily for drying out. A simple test of removing a small sample and taking it outside for a match test will indicate the condition of the tree. A dry tree is a hazard and must be removed immediately;

6. do not locate the tree near heat producing devices, e.g. stoves, heat ducts, direct sunlight through windows, etc.

Hope this helps!

John