Firefighters chipping in

With the holidays over and many people disposing their real Christmas trees, there are some things to be aware of.

"People are sometimes hard-pressed to know what to do with that tree. You definitely want to get it out of the yard. Definitely get it out of the house, just from a fire-safety perspective," Penticton Fire Department crew member David Scott said.

The fire department in Penticton, like others in the Okanagan, is helping alleviate the tree-disposal process for the public.

The department hosted their annual Christmas tree drop-off on Saturday, at Station 202 on Dawson Street. 

They also have been picking up trees from people’s homes this month by donation.

All of the trees collected will be taken to the Campbell Mountain landfill to be composted.

The efforts during January help the department fundraise for Muscular Dystrophy Canada, the B.C. Professional Firefighters Association Burn Fund, and other charitable causes.

Scott estimated that at least 200 trees have been collected this month by the department, and expects donations will reach about $2,000 dollars.

"There's no minimum donation. It all actually does add up, and that's not me being cheesy, it really makes a difference. People are being very generous," Scott said.

The public can still arrange to have the department pick up their Christmas tree until Jan. 17, and can drop their trees off at Station 202 until Jan. 31.

Scott advised those interested to call the department at 250-490-2315 to arrange a tree pick-up time.