Christmas tree fires are uncommon but dangerous, according to Hastings Fire Chief Martin Gunther, who is offering safety tips this holiday season.

The most important thing, he says, is to make sure you keep your Christmas tree hydrated by adding water to the base.

Next is making sure you string your tree with UL certified lights, which have been properly tested. He discourages the use of extension cords, because they can overheat the circuits.

For those who haven't brought home a tree yet, Gunther says buyers should make sure to pick fresh ones, because some of them have been out of the ground since October.

Lastly, he says keep the tree up for only a short period of time.

"Put it in as late as (you) can, and get it out as soon as possible," he says.