Holiday Safety: Setting Up Christmas Trees and Lights in High-Rise Condos and Apartments

Sarmad Naqvi

21 Nov 2025 — 2 min read

Setting Up Christmas Trees and Lights in High-Rise Condos and Apartments

The holidays bring warmth, light, and festive cheer—but in high-rise buildings, that joy can quickly turn dangerous if safety precautions aren’t followed. Between electrical overloads, dry trees, and flammable décor, holiday fires are unfortunately common this time of year. Below are key safety tips tailored for high-rise apartments and condominiums to help residents celebrate safely.

1. Choose the Right Tree

Go artificial when possible. Many high-rises restrict live trees because they dry out quickly and can pose a significant fire hazard. Look for flame-retardant artificial trees that meet building safety standards.
If using a live tree: Choose one that’s fresh with green needles that don’t shed easily. Please place it on a sturdy, water-filled stand and check the water level daily. A dry tree can ignite in seconds.

2. Place Trees Wisely

Keep trees at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as heaters, radiators, candles, and fireplaces.
Ensure the tree doesn’t block exits or hallways—especially important in multi-unit buildings where egress routes must remain clear.
Use a non-tip stand and secure the tree if pets or children are present to prevent accidents.

3. Inspect and Install Lights Safely

Check all light strings before use—discard any with frayed wires, loose connections, or cracked sockets.
Only use UL-listed indoor lights, and avoid overloading outlets or daisy-chaining multiple extension cords.
In high-rises, use LED lights instead of incandescent bulbs—they generate less heat and are more energy efficient.
Always turn off lights when leaving home or going to bed to prevent overheating or short circuits.

4. Avoid Open Flames

Candles remain one of the top causes of apartment fires during the holidays. Replace them with battery-operated LED candles for the same ambiance without the risk.
Never use candles near curtains, wreaths, or other flammable decorations.

5. Follow Building Rules

Many HOAs or property managers have holiday decoration guidelines—especially regarding balcony lighting, electrical cords through windows, or exterior décor.
Always confirm what’s allowed in your building to ensure compliance and safety for everyone.

6. Plan for Emergencies

Confirm your building’s fire evacuation plan and know the nearest stairwell exits (never use elevators during a fire).
Keep a small fire extinguisher or multi-purpose spray extinguisher accessible near your kitchen or living area.
If your building has an alarm or sprinkler system, ensure decorations don’t block or hang from sprinkler heads.

7. Dispose of Trees Properly

Never leave a dry tree in hallways, stairwells, or near dumpsters. Follow your HOA or property manager’s instructions for tree disposal or recycling to prevent hallway obstructions or ignition hazards.

A Safe Season for All

Holiday decorations can transform a condo into a cozy retreat—but safety should always come first. Encourage residents to review their building’s fire safety procedures and electrical load limits before decorating. By following these steps, you can keep your home—and your neighbors—safe throughout the season.

by Sarmad Naqvi, CLCS

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