If you haven’t seen it, this public service announcement video demonstrating how rapidly fire will spread in a dry Christmas tree, is a good watch…Incredible Speed of a Christmas Tree Fire. Although extremely rare, Christmas tree fires can happen. The demonstration video makes a real impact on those that view it. Most people are surprised with the results.

Don’t let the fear of fire keep you from having a real Christmas tree this year. Real Christmas trees simply cannot cause fires. Such fires are caused by external sources, such as electrical outlets, frayed electrical cords and lamps.

Here are a few things that you should keep in mind if you have an indoor Christmas tree:

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  Photo: Contributed - (Flickr user, lemon)

  Keeping the tree watered is the most important way to prevent a fire hazard

• Before erecting your fresh-cut tree, make a 1 inch cut from the lowest portion of the trunk.

• Stand the tree in a reservoir of water that can hold a litre of water per inch of the trunk's diameter

• Follow instructions when using tree lights and avoid using too many

• Unplug tree lights before leaving or going to bed

• Do not use candles or worn light bulbs to decorate the tree

• Keep the tree at least three feet away from a heat source and out of direct sunlight

• Check water levels on a daily basis and refill as necessary

• When the needles become brittle and dry, remove the tree promptly

While preventing a fire is always important, the best way to protect yourself is by having working smoke alarms inside your home.