" "outdoor" or both. Whenever possible

The Christmas tree is a symbol of the holiday season for 33 million American households each year. Some people choose to buy their tree from the store, but many families enjoy "hunting" down that perfect tree and spending time together as a family placing the Christmas ornaments on the branches. There are many different types of tree to choose from and countless ways to decorate, as well as ways to protect you and your family from fire this Christmas.

In addition to firs, some people prefer a pine or cypress Christmas tree instead. The Norway Spruce is a beautiful tree with long, dark green needles and a terrific shape, although these trees only last about a week before the needles fall out. Nevertheless, the Norway Spruce remains a popular choice in European households.


The Colorado Blue Spruce has a neat pyramid shape and silvery-blue foliage, with very strong limbs for heavy ornaments. Lastly, the Leland Cypress, with its green-gray color, upright feathery branches and light scent, which is ideal for allergy sufferers, is one of the most sought after trees in the Southeastern US.

There are many ways to decorate a Christmas tree, which is usually based on personal preference and style. However, if you'd like some traditional decorating tips for your tree, then you may want to follow a theme like country, Victorian or family style. The country tree is short, full and stout.

Old-fashioned, egg-shaped red and green lights are the most popular, although blue and yellow lights are okay too. Rustic ornaments made of wood, tin, velvet, ribbon, glass and tinsel may then be added, with a star to top it off. By contrast, the tall, slender Victorian tree uses themes such as angels, animals, birds or musical instruments.

Ornaments are usually small, made of tin or glass and colored blue, lavender, pink or gold. Lastly, the family Christmas trees showcase real characters, using all homemade ornaments and decorations like strung-popcorn, homemade gingerbread men, candy canes and a hodge podge of flashing lights.

Almost half (48%) of all Christmas tree fires each year are caused by electrical failure. To prevent a holiday catastrophe, check to see whether your lights are marked "indoor," "outdoor" or both. Whenever possible, choose lights with reflectors, rather than bare bulbs.

Never connect more than three strands (or 150 light bulbs) together. Read the manufacturer's instructions on how to use the Christmas lights and avoid using any old strands that have loose connections or frayed cords.

An additional 27% of fires from Christmas trees are caused by a heat source being too close, so be sure the tree is at least three feet from all fireplaces, heaters, space heaters and candles. Watering your tree daily will also reduce the fire hazard risk as well. Holiday lights were involved in 22% of the fires, candles in 15% of the accidents and space heaters were involved in 7% of all fires.

Discover more about the christmas tree from Mike Selvon portal where a free gift awaits you. We appreciate your feedback at our christmas tradition blog.