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Terrifying images have been shared of how quickly a Christmas tree can catch fire if it is not watered.
A video shared on Twitter by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows a simulated electrical fire starting in a dry Christmas tree, engulfing the room in as little as 40 seconds, serving as a warning for who decorate their homes this year.
“Many people have real Christmas trees in their homes for the first time this holiday season,” the commission said.
“Make sure you keep your tree well watered. A dry Christmas tree burns faster than newspaper.”
A firefighter rushes to tackle the fire. Photo: US Consumer Product Safety Commission
The video shows two simulations of the same living room side by side: one with a well-watered tree and the other with a dry tree.
When the watered tree begins to burn, flames climb up the branches and wisps of gray smoke reach the ceiling.
After about 30 seconds the fire continues but does not reach any other part of the room and slowly dies out.
Meanwhile, the dry tree begins to burn and the result is dire.
In 10 seconds, the entire tree is engulfed in flames that reach the ceiling and produce a thick column of dark smoke.
A painting on the wall begins to melt in approximately 25 seconds, before a nearby sofa is also caught on fire.
After 40 seconds, firefighters rush to put out the flames.
People should not put Christmas trees next to fireplaces. Stock Image
Christmas trees need to be watered daily and you can check how much water your tree needs based on its size.
According to UK Fire Resources, you shouldn’t place your tree near a heat source like a fireplace or radiator. This could dry it out and make it more flammable.
You should also be careful not to drop or throw cigarette ash near a tree, and you should keep the tree stand full of water at all times.
Preferably, you should not place live Christmas trees too early or leave them longer than two weeks.
