Parksville Firefighters Association will host a Christmas tree chipping for charity event on Jan. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Wembley Mall parking lot.
Tree chipping and disposal will be offered by cash donation to the Parksville Firefighters Association Charitable Fund to support community projects during the year, according to a news release by the fire department.
Branching Out Urban Forestry has donated the tree chipper and staff so every cent donated will support the firefighters’ fundraising efforts.
Between now and when it’s time to get rid of the Christmas tree, here are some safety tips from Parksville Fire Rescue to keep your tree from drying out too quickly and also reduce the risk of fire in your home:
• Keep your tree in a shady cool spot away from sun and heat;
• Christmas trees are thirsty, don’t let them run dry… ever! Check the water level daily;
• Use LED lights in good working order. These emit very little heat;
• Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit, such as a door or window;
• Don’t leave your Christmas tree plugged in when you’re away from home or asleep;
• Test your smoke alarms which save lives by alerting the household to a fire.
When bringing a tree to this year’s event, please ensure all decorations are removed before bringing it to Wembley Mall (826 Island Hwy W).
