A Holiday Guide from JP Maguire & Associates – Waterbury, CT
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year in Connecticut. From Waterbury to New Haven to Hartford, families are decorating their homes, visiting local tree farms, and preparing for festive celebrations. But with Christmas tree fires causing millions in property damage every year, safety should be a top priority—especially during the busy holiday weeks.
At JP Maguire & Associates, located at 266 Brookside Rd, Waterbury, CT, we specialize in fire restoration, water damage restoration, mold remediation, and asbestos removal. We’ve seen firsthand how quickly a holiday celebration can turn into a disaster when tree safety is overlooked. That’s why we’ve created this essential guide to keep your home festive and safe.
Why Christmas Tree Safety Matters in Connecticut
Connecticut winters are cold and dry, creating the perfect conditions for holiday fires if trees are not properly cared for. Whether you’re placing a fresh-cut tree from a local farm or decorating an artificial one, the right safety steps can significantly reduce risks.
1. Choose a Fresh, Healthy Tree
If you’re shopping from popular tree farms near Waterbury or New Haven:
- Look for bright green needles that don’t fall off easily.
- A fresh tree is less likely to dry out, which helps prevent fires.
- When you lift the tree, it should feel heavy—dry trees lose moisture and become lightweight.
Pro Tip: If you buy locally from farms in South Windsor, Bethlehem, or Shelton, ask the growers when the tree was cut.
2. Water Your Tree Daily
A dry tree can ignite in seconds, turning an entire room into a fire hazard.
- Keep your stand filled with fresh water every day.
- Your tree should never go without water for more than a few hours once it’s indoors.
- Place the tree away from heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, and heat vents.
Did you know? Connecticut fire departments respond to dozens of preventable tree-related fires each year—most due to dry trees.
3. Inspect Your Lights & Electrical Cords
Holiday lights add sparkle, but faulty wiring can be dangerous.
- Replace any lights with frayed cords, broken bulbs, or loose connections.
- Use UL-listed lights designed specifically for indoor trees.
- Never overload outlets—use power strips with surge protection.
- Always unplug lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
4. Keep Your Tree Away From Fire Hazards
Indoor space heaters, candles, and fireplaces are common in Connecticut homes—especially during snowy weeks.
To stay safe:
- Keep the tree at least three feet away from heat sources.
- Avoid placing candles near branches or decorations.
- Use flameless candles for a safer holiday glow.
5. Dispose of Your Tree Promptly
Once the holidays are over:
- Don’t leave your dry tree in the house, garage, or leaning against your home.
- Most CT towns—Waterbury, New Haven, Southbury, Cheshire—offer tree recycling or curbside pickup.
A dry tree can ignite faster than newspaper—even weeks after Christmas.
If a Holiday Fire Happens, We’re Here to Help
Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. If your home experiences fire damage, smoke damage, water damage from firefighting, mold growth, or asbestos concerns, JP Maguire & Associates is ready 24/7.
JP Maguire & Associates
266 Brookside Rd.
Waterbury, CT 06708
jpmaguire.com
We proudly serve Connecticut communities including Waterbury, New Haven, Hartford, Bristol, West Hartford, Cheshire, Southington, and beyond.
Stay Safe, Stay Merry, and Enjoy a Fire-Free Holiday Season!