(Does not apply to University of Missouri Healthcare System)
Fresh Cut and Live Christmas Trees
1. All natural trees and evergreen boughs set up in University facilities are to be sprayed with a fire retardant material (this does not apply to “U.L. Listed” artificial trees labeled as “Fire Resistant”).
2. When purchasing a fresh cut tree, be sure the tree and/or boughs are not dried out. To check, grasp a branch about 6” from the end and firmly slide it between your fingers to the tip. If the tree is fresh, no needles will come off. No red cedar trees or red cedar boughs are to be used under any circumstances due to their fast drying nature.
3. After purchasing a tree, keep it in water and outside the facility until the time you set it up. When you are ready to display it, saw approximately 2” off the bottom of the trunk to assist in absorption of water.
4. Be sure the tree is placed in a sturdy, broad-based stand which will hold water and be sure to keep water in the stand at all times. Check water level daily.
5. There will be no designated drop-off/pickup location on campus property for disposal of Christmas trees. Do not put trees in dumpsters or outside on the curb, in the yard, or other locations. The City of Columbia provides drop-off locations for recycling. For details, go to http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/PublicWorks/Solidwaste/christmas-trees.php .
All Holiday Decorations
1. Live, fresh-cut, and artificial Christmas trees must not be placed near a stairway, radiator, exit, hallway, or any other location where the tree, if standing or fallen, would block an escape route, signage or increase fire risk.
2. Check to see that artificial trees are Underwriters’ Laboratories (U.L.) listed and labeled “Fire Resistant”.
3. Only use lighting that is listed by U.L. or other independent testing laboratory. Before putting lights on trees or other decorations, inspect for frayed cords, loose connections, broken sockets, exposed wires and general safety. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the maximum number of lights on any one circuit. Do not use real candles or other open flames on Christmas trees or as room decorations.
4. Turn off and unplug all decorative lights when there is no one to monitor them.
5. Electrical tree lights are not to be used on metallic trees due to the ever present danger of electrocution.
6. Avoid use of electrical extension cords if possible and never use them for periods exceeding 30 days. Never run extension cords under rugs, behind or beneath furniture.
We encourage you to contact Environmental Health and Safety if you have questions or need additional information at 882-7018 or http://ehs.missouri.edu/fire/holiday-decorations.html