HomeNewsCity offers Christmas tree safety tips

City offers Christmas tree safety tips

The city, at press time, reported 75,458 confirmed coronavirus cases.

An interactive map of cases broken down by ZIP code can be found at phila.gov.

There have been a total of 2,107 deaths in the city. Of those deaths, 950 have been in nursing homes.

To find testing sites, go to https://www.phila.gov/covid-testing-sites/#/.

Mask wearing remains required in all businesses, and the state has issued an order requiring masks while out in public.

Statewide, there are 436,614 cases in all 67 counties, with 11,542 confirmed deaths, including 7,447 in nursing homes or personal care facilities.

TIMES FILE PHOTO

Meanwhile, Mayor Jim Kenney noted on Tuesday that, amid the pandemic, Philadelphia families are moving ahead with holiday plans that, for many, include Christmas trees.

“A Christmas tree, for those who celebrate, is certainly going to bring some welcome cheer into homes as we close out this tremendously difficult year,” he said.

But the mayor cautioned that a safe holiday season means properly choosing, caring for and disposing of natural-cut Christmas trees, which are permitted in one- and two-family homes in Philadelphia.

Here are some safety tips from the Philadelphia Fire Department and National Fire Protection Association:

• Buy a tree with fresh needles that don’t fall off when touched.

• Cut 2 inches off the base of the trunk to allow the tree to better absorb water from the tree stand.

• Water the tree daily — dried-out trees are a fire hazard.

• Don’t place the tree near exits, stairs or heat sources.

• If you use tree lights, make sure they are designated for indoor use and that the cords are not frayed.

• Never leave lighted trees unattended.

Philadelphians looking for the latest local information on the coronavirus can visit phila.gov/COVID-19.

Residents with questions can call a 24-hour helpline at 800-722-7112.

Or, text COVIDPHL to 888-777 to receive updates to your phone. ••

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