People who see the 'burning tree' demonstration are stunned at how quickly --and explosively--a dry Christmas tree burns.

The Firemen's Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has these tips to stay safe when you decorate up and celebrate the holidays:
>If you have a live tree, keep it watered.  When it dries out, take it down.
>Put decorations up, away from candles or hot lights--they could melt or burn
>Make sure candles are not near anything that could catch fire (drapes, decorations)
>Holiday lights:  wires should be in good condition. If frayed, discard the string.  Do not overload plugs with multiple strings!
>Chimneys:  If you're using a fireplace, make sure the chimney's been cleaned -- professionally--recently.
>Cooking:  Don't let pots & pans cook on stoves unattended--burned down food can start fires, too!