The water in the tree stand is potentially hazardous to children and pets, It s also attractive to them as it s warmish, and possibly sweet if you ve added anything to it. Please be certain to cover the base with something like a tree skirt just to discourage casual sipping. Make sure your lights are in good working order. Whole families have been burned in their beds because of faulty Christmas tree lights. Candles are not recommended no matter how fresh the tree, but if you do use them, never, ever leave the tree unattended.
Fire can take only a few moments to sweep through a room.
Also, keep all paper products away from the lights. Make sure packages are not touching low-hanging light strings. A little caution in this area always pays off in home and family security. Don t overload your electrical outlet either. One good spark and even a fake tree can be blazing before you know it.