Shocking Video Shows The Dangers Of Not Watering Your Christmas Tree

It's about this time that families climb up to the loft or delve into the back of the shed to dig out their old plastic Christmas tree.

Or, if you are particularly middle class, you jump in the car and actually go out and buy a real tree, so you can enjoy that nice Christmassy smell for weeks and weeks.

If you prefer real over plastic then you should have a look at this shocking video which shows the importance of keeping your tree hydrated throughout the festive season.

Released by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the clip puts two real trees next to each other and shows how quickly a fire can start with one that hasn't been watered compared to one that has.

In just a matter of moments the dry tree ignites and the flames begin to spread throughout the tree. Within a minute the entire tree has become engulfed in flames, spreading violently to the rest of the living room set.

And in under two minutes the whole room has been completely destroyed.

However, the well watered tree barely catches light, save for a small flame in the centre of the trunk and some smoke, which is quickly extinguished.

NIST/Youtube

The National Fire Protection Association website offers advice on how to best look after your tree this year.

It says: "Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. Carefully decorating your home can help make your holidays safer."

And be sure to 'add water to the tree stand, daily'.

But as well as keeping your plush tree well fed over the next few weeks, experts also have a few more pieces of wisdom that could help keep you and your family safe this Christmas.

The NFPA website goes on: "Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

"Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed."

And even after the festive period is over fire officers say they still pose a fire risk.

They added: "Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

"Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer."

Topics: World News, UK News, US News

Dominic Smithers

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

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