We want you to have a safe holiday season. In Philadelphia, natural-cut Christmas trees are allowed only in one- and two-family homes. Properly selecting and caring for your Christmas tree can help prevent house fires.

Here are some tips:

• When choosing a tree, bend some of the needles. If they break, the tree is too dry.
• After picking your tree, cut off an extra inch of the trunk. The fresh cut will help it absorb water.
• Place tree firmly in stand with plenty of room for water.
• Check water level daily and add if needed.
• Make sure electrical cords (for tree lights) are not frayed or knotted.
• Don’t overload electrical outlets.
• Never leave a lighted tree unattended.
• Don’t let the tree block exits or stairs.
• Keep tree away from portable heaters and other sources of heat.
• Make sure all ornaments and decorations have been removed from the tree before disposal or recycling.