The video that shows why you should water your Christmas tree

The warning video shows a dry tree setting alight in seconds, whereas a well-watered tree takes far longer to catch fire.

James Cheng-Morris
·Freelance news writer, Yahoo UK
·2-min read

This is the video that demonstrates the importance of keeping real Christmas trees watered over the festive period.

The video, by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology, shows two trees - one watered and one dry - being set alight. The flames on the dry tree spread in a matter of seconds, while the fire on the watered tree barely gets going.

In separate guidance issued last week, the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) said that while Christmas tree fires are rare - blazes involving candles are 38 times more likely in the US - they can be disastrous if they do happen.

"That’s in part because fresh Christmas trees dry out over time, making them more flammable the longer they’re in the home.

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"A dried-out Christmas tree will burn much more quickly than a well-watered one."

The comparison of fires on a watered tree and dry tree. (National Institute of Standards and Technology)
The comparison of fires on a watered tree and dry tree. (National Institute of Standards and Technology)

There are no official statistics for Christmas tree fires in the UK, but according to loss assessors Morgan Clark, Christmas trees are one of the biggest cause of house fires in December - when more house fire insurance claims are filed than at other times if the year.

It has also found electrical distribution or lighting equipment causes 41% of fires, with 20% started by lamps or bulbs and 11% caused by candles.

Here are tips, adapted from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service guidance issued last year, on how to keep safe:

  • Choose a fresh tree from which the needles don't easily fall off. This will mean it is more hydrated and less likely to catch fire.

  • Water it daily and never let it run dry.

  • Position it away from heat sources such as fires, log burners and electric heaters.

  • Have an escape plan ready which everyone in the household is aware of, and ensure the tree doesn't block doors or pathways.

  • Inspect Christmas lights in case of frayed wires, damaged socket or loose connections. Consider using LED lights, which emit less heat.

  • Switch off tree lights when going to bed or leaving the property.

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