Press Release Archives #558-98 - Safety Tips for New Yorkers Celebrating this Holiday Season

Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Sunday, December 13, 1998

Release #558-98

Contact: Colleen Roche/Curt Ritter (212) 788-2958
Shonna Keogan 212/487-4283 (DCA)

MAYOR GIULIANI AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS COMMISSIONER POLONETSKY RECOMMEND TIPS ON PICKING THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS TREE AND OFFER SAFETY TIPS FOR NEW YORKERS CELEBRATING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and Consumer Affairs Commissioner Jules Polonetsky today offered consumers tips to remember when shopping for the perfect Christmas tree and offered safety tips for New Yorkers celebrating this Holiday Season. The Mayor made the announcement at the Boy Scouts of America Annual Christmas Tree Sale Fundraiser in midtown Manhattan.

"I can think of no better place to celebrate the Holidays than New York City," said Mayor Giuliani. "With just 12 days before Christmas, New Yorkers still have a chance to find the 'perfect' Christmas tree from one of the hundreds of trees being sold by merchants throughout the City. And by following a few simple tips, New Yorkers can ensure that the tree they purchase will remain fresh through to the New Year and their Holidays will be both safe and bright."

Aided by Boy Scouts from Troop Triple Six, Commissioner Polonetsky offered the following tips to consumers as they shop for their Christmas trees:

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."

The Mayor also cautioned New Yorkers to be careful with tree lights and other decorations that can pose a safety risk if not used properly:

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."
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."
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."
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."

This evening is the first night of Hanukkah. Commissioner Polonetsky advised New Yorkers to be aware of the following safety hazards:

Mind Your Menorah -- "No other tradition signifies Hanukkah like the lighting of the menorah for each of the eight nights celebrated. If you use an oil or candle menorah, be careful that draperies or shades do not catch on fire, and supervise children around the menorah at all times. If you use an electric menorah, check the cord for frayed wires before plugging it in."

Watch Young Children With Dreidels -- "The dreidel, the traditional Hanukkah spinning toy, is a favorite with kids. Watch out for small dreidels, which could pose a choking hazard for toddlers who might put them in their mouths."

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.

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