There’s something timeless about a real Christmas tree. The smell of pine, the soft glow of lights, and ornaments that carry years of memories all help set the mood for the holidays. But as the days go by and the tree stands in a warm living room, fire officials say that festive centerpiece can quietly become a serious fire risk.
The Reno Fire Department drove that point home Friday with a live demonstration showing just how dangerous a dry Christmas tree can be. Fire crews set a dried-out tree on fire to show how quickly flames can spread. Within seconds, the fire shot from the base to the top, filling the area with intense heat and thick smoke.
Firefighters say a freshly cut Christmas tree usually is not a problem. The danger grows as the tree dries out. Once it has been cut, a tree immediately starts losing moisture, and indoor heat speeds up that process. As needles dry and branches stiffen, the tree becomes much more flammable than many people realize…