During the holiday season, Christmas trees can potentially pose a serious fire threat. On Thursday, 19 December 2002, the Apex Fire Department hosted a demonstration for the local news media which showed the effectiveness of fire retardent sprays. These products, which are colorless and biodegradable, render the trees virtually flame-proof once applied.

To prove this point, we had two trees side by side - one that had been treated with a fire retardent spray, and one that had not. Fires were then set under both trees at the same time. The tree that had not been treated was totally engulfed in flames within seconds of ignition. In stark contrast, the tree that HAD been treated remained flame-free for a much longer time.

This demonstration was broadcast on several local news channels throughout the afternoon and evening. Hopefully it will serve to educate the public about this threat and an easy and cheap way to mitigate it.

Many thanks to John Sperath, Chief Haraway and C-Shift for organizing and carrying out this event.

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