Proper Christmas Tree Disposal Urged by State Fire Marshal’s Office

Posted on December 29, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI

As the holiday season continues, Hoosiers are reminded to keep an eye on the live Christmas trees in their homes. The average Christmas tree lasts for about a month after purchase, before it begins to dry out and become a fire hazard, according to the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. When a tree’s needles drop, it’s time to remove it.

Fires that begin with a Christmas tree tend to be more deadly than the average house fire. The National Fire Prevention Association says about one in every 32 Christmas-tree-related fires resulted in death, compared to one in 143 for all home fires.

To prevent fires, state officials remind residents to dispose of their Christmas trees properly. You can check to see if your community offers tree disposal or pickup. If you plan to take the tree somewhere, make sure it’s secured to your vehicle, since dry trees are very light, and branches can break easily.

Another option is to dispose of the tree in your yard or garden. State officials say old Christmas trees can serve as a winter shelter for birds and wildlife. They recommend placing trees in a designated decomposition pile, rather than leaning them against any structures. You can also chop the tree for firewood. In any case, remove all decorations before disposing of your Christmas tree.

State Fire Marshal Urges Proper Tree Disposal

Posted on December 27, 2016
Author Mary Perren, WKVI

Christmas is over, and Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson reminds Hoosiers to properly dispose of their live trees.

When a tree starts to drop needles, it means it is too dry and should be removed from the home, according to Greeson. He says dry trees are a fire hazard. The National Fire Prevention Association notes roughly one of every 34 reported home fires that begin with a Christmas tree resulted in death, compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home fires.

All decorations should be removed before disposing of the tree.

Many communities offer a disposal or pickup service for Christmas trees. In Knox they can be dropped off at the brush pile behind city hall.

Recycle Indiana has a statewide list of Solid Waste Management Programs, which can found here: http://bit.ly/INSolidWasteManagement. This service allows Indiana residents to locate waste management district and disposal options in their area.

If disposing of a Christmas tree at home, treat a tree as garden waste. Do not lean the tree against any structures, instead place in designated decomposition pile. Placing the tree in a garden or backyard can provide winter shelter for birds and other wildlife. Another option is chopping the tree for firewood for summer bonfires, or indoor use next winter when the wood is properly seasoned.