Six tips to keep your Christmas tree beautiful and safe.

According to a survey by Nielson and the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) almost 100 million homes in the U.S. will display a Christmas tree. Of those trees, almost 20 million of you will be using a living tree.

Those trees can pose unexpected hazards if they’re not handled correctly, so the ACTA has a few recommendations for you as you celebrate the season.

Fresh trees are less likely to be a fire hazard. When buying a tree look for one with bright green needles that are hard to pluck from their branches. Always be sure to place your tree a safe distance from a fireplace or exit. You may want to decorate with candles, but keep them away from the tree… one little spark can be enough to send a dry tree up in flames. Do not use any damaged light strings. Damaged lights can cause bulbs to overheat or spark and could lead to a very unhappy holiday. Be sure any lights you use to decorate your home or outdoor tree are rated for that. You can use outdoor lights indoors, but not the other way around. Keep your tree watered! If you’re using a living Christmas tree that is the best way to keep it looking great for the holiday, and avoid a possible fire. Bedtime means lights out; don’t leave your tree lit through the night to save power.

There are more tips available on their site.