Natural Christmas trees are one of the most beloved holiday traditions. Their scent, texture, and warm presence create an atmosphere that no artificial version can truly replicate.
+ The historic Christmas décor of the White House in 2025; see photos
However, this holiday charm also comes with a risk. According to the NFPA, the National Fire Protection Association, natural trees are responsible for about 160 house fires per year in the United States, a number that highlights the importance of simple but essential precautions.
Even though they can last up to five weeks with proper care, trees can dry out quickly and become flammable if placed in the wrong location. This is why choosing the right spot for the tree is just as important as decorating it.
Below, see where you should never place your natural Christmas tree and where it will be much safer.
Completely avoid fireplaces and any intense heat source
As charming as a Christmas tree beside a lit fireplace may look, it is actually the worst place to put it. A single spark can reach a dried branch and start a fire in seconds.
Both wood-burning and gas fireplaces are extremely intense sources of heat, the most dangerous in the home during winter. Besides fireplaces, keep the tree away from:
- Portable heaters
- Radiators
- Hot air vents
- Appliances that get hot during use
These devices speed up the drying process, causing the tree to lose moisture and become even more flammable.
Be careful with electrical and electronic devices
In addition to direct heat sources, the tree should never be placed near electronics that warm up during use, such as televisions, computers, routers, and video game consoles. These devices also carry overheating risks and can contribute to fire hazards.
Safer places to position your Christmas tree
Fortunately, there are much safer places, which are also aesthetically pleasing, to keep your tree beautiful and hydrated throughout the season:
- Entry hall
- Empty corners of the living room
- Near the staircase
- Dining room
- Wide hallways
Keep the tree at least 90 centimeters, or three feet, away from any heat source, and make sure it does not block doors, pathways, or outlets.
The tree should also be placed near an easily accessible outlet so you do not need to use extension cords, which can increase the risk of electrical accidents.
How to extend the tree’s life and prevent drying
Warm and dry environments are the biggest enemies of natural trees. To help your tree last longer and stay less susceptible to fire, follow these recommendations:
- Ideal temperature: keep the environment below 22 degrees Celsius whenever possible.
- Constant hydration: make sure the trunk is always submerged in water. In the first few days, trees can consume up to four liters of water per day.
- Avoid direct sunlight: intense sun speeds up needle drying.
- Use a humidifier: one of the most effective ways to keep the tree fresh longer.
With these precautions, your tree will remain beautiful, hydrated, and much safer.
Natural trees are powerful symbols of Christmas, but they require attention and specific care so they do not become hazards inside the home. By avoiding heat sources, keeping the tree hydrated, and positioning it in strategic places, you ensure a much safer holiday season and perfect decor through the New Year.
Source: House Digest. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
