Massachusetts Fire Officials Urge Prompt Holiday Tree Disposal

Massachusetts fire officials are urging residents not to keep Christmas trees too long into the new year.

State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan says if a dried out Christmas tree ignites, it can spread a fire quickly.

“Many people’s tradition is to put up their Christmas trees right after Thanksgiving, which makes them tinder dry by New Year’s Eve,” Coan says. “Last year we had several fires involving Christmas trees that lingered too long in homes.”

Authorities say residents should take advantage of community pickup days or recycling programs if they are available.

To find out if your community has a tree recycling program, visit earth911.org online and put in your zip code.

Coan says discarded Christmas trees also can be easy fuel for arsonists.