It's out with the old and in with the new for 2015. That's certainly the case when it

Christmas tree, by Rosetta Key Townsquare Media
Christmas tree, by Rosetta Key Townsquare Media
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comes to the dead and dying Christmas tree sitting in your house.According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the longer a Christmas tree sits in your home, the drier it becomes, making it more flammable and placing you at greater risk for fire. That's why the NFPA has launched an advisory, encouraging the prompt removal and disposal of Christmas trees after the holidays.

NFPA Communication Manager Susan McKelvey said "you can see they just become more dry over time and they can ignite in flames and take off very quickly and become a serious hazard in the home."

According to an NFPA press release the numbers bare it out, with statistics showing that nearly 40 percent of home fires involving Christmas trees occurring in the Month of January.

"On average each year, there are 230 home fires that start with Christmas trees and they cause and average of six deaths, 22 injuries and $18.3 million dollars in direct property damage," said McKelvey.

The NFPA offers tips in preventing such fires. They suggest keeping the tree watered while inside your home to prevent it from drying out, move trees away from close proximity to heating sources such as vents, inspect electric string light cords for damage and store them away from pets.

Get more information at NFPA.org

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