Release #490-99

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani, Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen and Consumer Affairs Commissioner Jules Polonetsky today offered consumers tips to remember when shopping for the perfect Christmas tree and offered safety tips for the Holiday Season. The Mayor made the announcement at the Green Market in Union Square Park.

"New York City is a wonderful place to be during the holiday season," the Mayor said. "With Christmas less than a week away, New Yorkers still have some time to find the 'perfect' Christmas tree from among one of the thousands of trees being sold by merchants throughout the City. By following a few simple tips, New Yorkers can ensure that the tree they purchase will remain fresh straight through the New Year and that this holiday season will be a safe one."

Consumer Affairs Commissioner Jules Polonetsky said, "For countless New Yorkers, shopping for a Christmas tree is one of the true highpoints of the holiday season. By following these helpful tips, New Yorkers will be as consumer savvy when shopping for a Christmas tree as they are when making any other type of purchase."

• Check Tree For Freshness -- Many of the trees sold on the City's streets may have been cut as long as a month ago and may be 'needle-weary. When looking for the perfect tree, bang the trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, select a fresher tree.
• Avoid Painted Trees -- Watch out for trees with a greenish cast to their trunks and branches. Growers may have artificially colored trees to make them look more appealing.
• Shop During The Day -- If possible, shop for your tree during the day so you can spot any imperfections. If you decide to shop at night, be sure to examine the tree under bright lights to better detect any flaws.
• Keep Your Tree In Water -- Ask the merchant to saw off an inch or two from the trunk so it can readily soak up water, which will keep it fresh after you bring it home.
• Have Vines Removed -- Have the seller remove any vines from the tree as they may be poison ivy, greenbrier or other thorny weeds.

Fire Commissioner Von Essesn also cautioned New Yorkers to be careful with tree lights and other decorations that can pose a safety risk if not used properly.

"During this holiday season, as well as throughout the year, our primary message, first, last and always is prevention," Commissioner Von Essen said. "If you remove the fire hazards from your home you can limit the risk to yourself, your family, your neighbors and to firefighters. By following a few simple safety precautions, New Yorkers can celebrate a safe and joyous holiday season."

• Keep Trees Away From All Sources Of Heat -- It's important to keep the base of the tree well-supported and away from fireplaces, radiators, electric heaters, and television sets. Never use open flames or lit candles on or near a Christmas tree and, although it may seem festive, an electric train under the tree can increase the risk of fire.
• Inspect Tree Lights - Inspect each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, bulbs, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Discard damaged sets or repair them before using, and never use more then three standard sets of lights per single extension cord. Use only Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved lights on your tree, and NO CANDLES. Use only non-combustible decorations.
• Always Turn Tree Lights Off When Away From Home - Trees will dry out over the Holiday Season and will easily ignite if a circuit overloaded by your tree lights sparks up.
• Secure Your Tree - Avoid accidents by using wire or cord to secure your tree to the wall or ceiling (this will prevent it from topping over).
• Use Flame-Retardant On Your Tree -- This may take away from the fragrance of your tree, but it will greatly minimize the fire risk.
• Trim Your Tree Safely -- Use only non-combustible or flame resistant materials, choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or non-leaded metals.
• Avoid Artificial Snow - Artificial snow sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled. To prevent injury read the container labels and follow the directions carefully.
• Dispose Of Wrapping Paper Quickly -- Wrapping paper easily ignites and burns intensely. Remove all wrapping papers from around the tree after you've opened your gifts. Never burn wrappings in the fireplace or wood stove.
• Be Mindful Of Young Children And Pets Around The Tree - Bright lights and pretty ornaments will attract toddlers and pets. Keep a close eye on them to avoid accidents.
• Discard Your Tree Promptly - Trees need water regularly. When your tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.

The Mayor also reminded New Yorkers that Christmas trees are recyclable and should be placed at the curb after all tinsel, lights and ornaments have been removed. Trees should not be bagged. The Department of Sanitation will announce the dates in January when trees will be picked up. The trees will be turned into mulch which, will be distributed Citywide to non-profit gardening groups.