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Phila. Fire Officials Warn of Holiday Season's Special Fire Dangers

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By Paul Kurtz

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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Fire Department today issued its annual list of safety tips for the holidays.

Fire commissioner Lloyd Ayers gave a demonstration of how to properly slice the base off a freshly cut Christmas tree.

"You want to make sure you take a half-inch to one-inch cut," he said, adding, "This cut was pre-started so we wouldn't be here all day.  It's cutting nice and smooth."

The commissioner had a couple of dozen guests with him this time: elementary school students who were newly inducted members of the Junior Fire Patrol.

"Keep portable heaters away from live trees. Place tree trimmings and decorations away from a heat source," recited one.

"Check water level daily and add more water if needed," said another.

"Test smoke alarm batteries once a week," added a third.

fire patrol photo
(New members of the Junior Fire Patrol are sworn in at Fire Administration headquarters, 3rd and Spring Garden Streets. Photo by Paul Kurtz)

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They were commonsense -- and very important -- tips for a season that carries its own unique fire dangers.

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