Since the base of the tree has spent some time out of water, and the water has drawn up into the stem leaving air gaps, called cavitation, behind, it is important to reconnect the water in the trunk with the water in a container at the base of the tree. To reconnect the water column in the trunk with the water in the container, it is necessary to cut several inches from the base of the trunk, then immediately place the base of the trunk into water and keep the container of water from drying. If you do not cut the base of the trunk, the water may not cross the cavitation gap and the leaves may dry, even though you keep the base of the tree in water. When you transfer the tree indoors, if you do not work rapidly and do not allow the free water at the base of the trunk to dry, you should not need to cut the base of the trunk again. The longer the tree is indoors, the cooler you should maintain the room in which it is displayed.
Less water is lost from the needles in a cool room.
The shorter the display time indoors, the less the danger for fire. Check the water in the container at the base of the tree daily or more often. Do not let it dry. Use small, cool, decorative lights on the tree and use only those made for use on indoor Christmas trees. These can be sources of heat and sparks that result in the tragedies we wish to avoid.