NEWS RELEASE

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 21, 2000

CARY FIRE DEPARTMENT URGES CHRISTMAS TREE FIRE SAFETY

CARY, NC – Don’t let your holiday be marred by a Christmas tree fire.

With a tremendous number of families going out this holiday weekend to purchase and then erect their Christmas trees, the Cary Fire Department is offering the following fire safety reminders when purchasing, locating, and caring for Christmas trees:

Choose a tree that is fresh
Use a flame retardant spray product to help protect flammable materials such as the tree from igniting—available at local hardware and discount stores
Place tree in a sturdy stand to avoid tipping
Locate tree well away from candles and heat sources such as fireplaces and portable heaters
Water your tree often to keep it fresh

Nearly one-third of all house fires will occur between Thanksgiving and the New Year.

For further information on Christmas tree safety, contact the Cary Fire Department at 469-4056.

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MEDIA NOTE: The Cary Fire Department is purchasing, treating, and storing Christmas trees for their annual fire safety demonstration in December to show how these tips can make a difference. Look for our media advisory on the date and time in the coming weeks.

PRIMARY CONTACTS:

Kathy Ellis, Cary FD Public Education Specialist, 460-4958
Chief Wayne House, Cary Fire Department, 469-4056
Bill Coleman, Town Manager, 469-4002
Susan Moran, Public Information Officer, 460-4951