Christmas trees are an enjoyable part of the Christmas holiday. When maintained properly and basic safety guidelines are followed, they can be enjoyed with little risk to the safety of your family. Please follow these guidelines when displaying your tree: 1)      The bottom ½” shall be cut off immediately prior to installing the tree in its support device. 2)      The tree must be placed in a support device, which is stable, holds the tree securely and will prevent the tree from tipping over. 3)      The support device must  be capable of containing a two day supply of water. 4)      The water level, when full, shall cover the tree stem at least 2 inches. The water level shall be maintained above fresh cut and checked at least once daily. 5)      The tree shall be removed immediately if the needles fall off readily when a branch is shaken or if the needles are brittle and break when bent between the thumb and index finger. This check shall be made daily. 6)      Candles and open flames shall not be used on or near cut trees. Natural cut trees shall be kept a distance from heat vents and any open flame or heat producing device at least equal to the height of the tree. 7)      Only listed electrical wiring and lighting may be used on cut trees. Please follow this link to see a video demonstration of an improperly maintained tree :  http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/home_fire_prev/holiday-seasonal/treefire.shtm  If you operate a business or other commercial occupancy, please follow the link below for Christmas Tree regulations:  http://www.tahoefire.com/docs/Christmas%20tree_reqs.pdf