Although sales of artificial trees have risen from 11.9 million in 2012 to 23.6 in 2018, sales of real trees have remained stable. Approximately 32.8 million real trees were sold in the U.S. last year.1
Lovers of real Christmas trees appreciate their scent and authenticity. However, without a simple maintenance measure, a real Christmas tree can pose a significant fire danger in a home.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires.
Christmas trees are only a hazard, though, if they are dry and neglected. Watering a tree daily greatly reduces the fire danger.
The USFA video at right demonstrates what what happens when fire touches a dry tree and a properly maintained, well-watered tree.
