'Tis the season for a Christmas tree in the living room, but this holiday season the San Gabriel Fire Department urges residents to take precautions to prevent tree fires that could ruin the special time of year.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, a quarter of all Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems and a heat source too close to the tree causes another quarter. Christmas tree fires are relatively rare, but they can be extremely serious.

Residents can easily keep their home and family safe with the following tips:

•  Select a fresh tree at purchase and ensure it stays moist throughout the season. Keep the tree's water container full at all times, checking the water level daily.
• Be careful with electricity, all open flames and other heat sources near the tree.
• Check all Christmas tree lights, other electric decorations and electrical appliances with worn electrical cords. Use lights and extension cords that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Place the Christmas tree well away from heat registers, space heaters, fire places and wood stoves.
• Place the Christmas tree well clear of doors and keep an emergency escape route clear of trees, packages and furniture.
• Do not use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Unplug tree lights and other decorations when out of the room or sleeping.
• After Christmas, get rid of the tree before it gets dry.

For more information on fire and holiday safety, visit www.nfpa.org.