Cut about a quarter inch off

the bottom of the trunk before placing the tree in its stand, just as

you would cut the stems of fresh flowers.

Place water in the tree stand

immediately and check it daily to keep the water level above the base

of the trunk. Be especially careful about the water in the first 24 to

72 hours, because this is when the tree is the "thirstiest."

Keep the tree well away from

furnaces, radiators, heat vents and other heat sources.

Make sure lights are in good

working order. Do not overload your home's circuitry. Do not use lit candles

on or near trees. Turn off all lights before going to bed or leaving the

house.

Every home should make holiday

safety the first priority, avoiding needless accidents and keeping joy

in the holiday season. For more information, call the Fulton County Cooperative

Extension Service at 404-730-7000.