Learn Why Christmas Trees Are Sprayed With Fire Retardants

As we prepare for the most wonderful time of the year, fire safety must be a top priority. The winter holidays are supposed to be a joyous time, but this depends on how well we prepare to avoid potential safety risks.

Almost everywhere in the world, Christmas trees are a sure bet come December. Their lush, verdant hues and pretty ornamentation are a welcome addition to any space.

However, despite the spirit of community they represent, Christmas trees are potentially hazardous due to their proximity to electrical outlets and open flames.

Many commercial and residential property owners prefer having Christmas trees sprayed with fire-retardant products to reduce the risk of fire damage. This article describes how spraying Christmas trees with high-quality fire retardants can prevent you from facing a challenging holiday season.

Why Christmas Trees Are a Holiday Fire Hazard

Christmas trees bring joy, but they also introduce multiple fire risks into indoor spaces. As fresh trees dry out, their needles become more flammable. Combine that dryness with the heat from lights or the warmth of nearby heaters, and you create a dangerous environment.

To understand the scale of the problem, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that the U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 160 Christmas tree fires every year.

These fires lead to millions in property damage, dozens of injuries, and in some cases, fatalities. Electrical malfunctions remain the #1 cause, often due to overloaded outlets, damaged light strings, or heat buildup from older incandescent bulbs.

Holiday decor is meant to enhance the season, not create unnecessary risks. This is where fire retardants play an essential role.

How Fire Retardants Work on Christmas Trees

Fire retardants are chemicals used to slow down or prevent the spread of fire. They are typically added to materials like fabrics, plastics, and wood to make them more fire-resistant.

Fire retardants work by either creating a barrier that prevents oxygen from reaching the fuel or by altering the chemical structure of the fuel so that it is more difficult to ignite. When applied correctly, they:

• Absorb into needles and bark, increasing moisture retention
• Slow or delay ignition, even when exposed to heat
• Reduce flame spread, limiting how quickly a fire can expand
• Provide extra time to extinguish flames or escape, improving safety outcomes

This simple step dramatically reduces the risk of a holiday-related fire incident.

Why Are Christmas Trees Sprayed With Fire Retardant?

Christmas trees, especially natural ones, can ignite quickly once they dry out. Spraying them with a fire retardant makes them significantly less likely to catch fire if exposed to sparks, faulty wiring, or a nearby heat source.

• A tree is less likely to catch fire if an electrical malfunction occurs
• If a fire does start, the fire retardant will slow down the rate at which the tree burns. This gives people more time to evacuate the area and alert the fire department.
• Decorations, gifts, and nearby furnishings are less likely to be lost in a fire

For homes, offices, events, and commercial buildings required to follow fire codes, applying a fire retardant is a fast, cost-effective precaution.

The Dangers of Not Using Fire Retardants on Christmas Trees

Even though Christmas tree fires are relatively rare compared to other fire types, they are disproportionately destructive. When a dry tree catches fire, the flames can engulf an entire room in less than a minute.

Even though tree fires are largely avoidable, they continue to occur too frequently. According to the National Fire Research Laboratory, firefighters respond to approximately 200 Christmas tree fires annually.

Not using a fire-retardant spray on your Christmas tree dramatically increases the risk of your tree catching fire and potentially causing serious damage to your property.

Benefits of Using a Fire Retardant Spray

When applied correctly, fire retardant sprays create a barrier around the tree that prevents oxygen from reaching the fuel, slowing down or preventing the spread of fire. When applied to Christmas trees, it provides:

• Helps keep the tree fresher longer by improving moisture retention
• Reduces ignition risk, lowering the chance of accidental fires
• Limits smoke and toxic gases, improving indoor safety
• Adds peace of mind for families, businesses, and event planners
• Compliments safe lighting practices, creating a safer environment overall

For such an inexpensive and easy-to-use product, the benefits are substantial.

What Type of Fire Retardant Should You Use?

Choosing the right fire retardant comes down to the type of material you’re protecting and the environment it’s in. Each decoration responds differently to various treatments, so selecting the correct product ensures dependable performance.

For natural greenery such as real Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands, a specialized solution like Flamex PF is ideal. This product is designed specifically for absorbent natural materials and helps prevent fast ignition. 

When you need stronger flame resistance for higher-risk props or heavily flammable materials, a more robust option such as NoChar® provides an extra layer of protection. It forms a durable barrier when exposed to heat and is suitable for a wide range of porous surfaces. 

How to Apply Fire Retardant Safely

To get the most protection from your fire-retardant spray, follow these simple steps:

1. Start with a fresh, well-hydrated tree for the best absorption
2. Spray evenly from top to bottom until branches are damp, but not dripping
3. Allow the tree to dry fully before adding lights or ornaments
4. Reapply lightly halfway through the season, especially in heated homes
5. Always check lights, cords, and outlets for fraying or overheating

A few minutes of preparation can prevent a dangerous holiday emergency.

Keep Your Home Safe This Holiday Season

Holiday joy should never come at the cost of safety. Fire retardants offer a simple, effective solution for protecting your home, business, or event space throughout the season. RDR Technologies offers the best fire-retardant sprays on the market. Our products are safe to use, easy to apply, and highly effective at preventing the spread of fire.

Make safety part of your holiday tradition—your family, guests, and property will thank you. Our team of experts can answer any questions and help you select the right product for your application. Give us a call today at 405-702-0055 to place your order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is fire retardant safe for pets and children?
A: Water-based fire retardants like Flamex PF are non-toxic once dry.

Q: How long does fire retardant last on a Christmas tree?
A: Typically 30–60 days depending on environmental conditions.

Q: Do artificial trees need fire retardant?
A: Some do, especially older trees or displays used in commercial settings.