The Picton Firefighter’s Association is ready to help ring in the season with a small forest of Douglas Fir Christmas trees available for $40. The association consists of 20 members with the desire to serve and give back to the community. The association raises money throughout the year and often helps individuals, groups, charities, and families in need including a local children’s summer soccer team, the Dolphin Swim Team, Camp Trillium-Garratt’s Island, Canadian Cancer Society, Prince Edward County Hospice, Sick Kids Hospital, CAS Christmas Angel Fund and the CAS Christmas Toy Drive. For the past six years Camp BUCKO has become a charity that is close to their hearts. Camp BUCKO is just like any other summer camp for kids, the only difference is that this camp deals with the emotional and physical needs of children who have been burned.

Here are some fire safety tips for you, your family and friends:

– Make sure your cut tree is fresh, and keep the stand full of water at all times.

– At home or at work, make sure your tree doesn’t block a doorway.

– Check all decorative lights before placing them on the tree and discard any frayed or damaged lights and cords.

– Keep your Christmas tree away from all heat sources and never place lighted candles on or near the tree.

– When large amounts of needles begin to fall off, it’s time to get rid of the tree.

– Don’t burn wrapping paper or ribbons

– Always use a fireplace screen.

– Make sure candles are in secure holders and place them out of the reach of children.

– Ensure that there is a properly installed and working smoke alarm next to each and every sleeping area in your home.

– Test your smoke alarms to make sure they are in good working order and change the batteries, if necessary.

– Ensure all members of your household know two ways out of every room.

– Make sure the fire extinguisher is kept in an accessible place and the owner knows how to us properly.

– Every home, camper and trailer should have a fire extinguisher.

Have a safe and happy holiday!